Learning a new language is an exciting adventure. And like any adventure, you choose the way you get to your destination! Some language learners prefer a structured textbook approach, while others like to learn a new language with apps and online lessons.
So what are some advantages of using a textbook to learn a language, and when should you choose online language classes instead? Discover the differences between and benefits of language learning textbooks and online classes and apps, and how to tell which option is the right one for you.
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Language learning textbooks vs. online classes
Trying to decide whether you prefer an online approach to a new language, or if textbooks are the way to go? Take a look at our guide to compare various elements of each method.
| Language Learning Textbooks | Online Language Classes | |
| Price | One time cost between $50-$250, or less for used books | Free options, or monthly subscriptions between $7.50 and $30 |
| Curriculum | Focused on reading and writing | Focused on speaking and listening |
| On the Go | Limited; best for learning at a desk | Easy; apps, games, podcasts, and online lessons go with you |
| Additional Resources | Some textbooks come with audio or digital options | Comes with games, tracking apps, pronunciation guides, and many more |
| Updates | Limited; you’ll need a new edition for updates | Regular updates often without extra cost |
| Ideal Study Routine | Students who enjoy traditional, independent learning | Students who like learning with others and with teachers |
Some elements of learning a language can be the same across both textbooks and online classes. Both formats can take place independently or in a class setting, making them adaptable for your preferences. And some students like using textbooks alongside their online classes to reinforce the basics—making both a great option in itself!
Benefits of using language learning textbooks
If your only experience with learning a second language is from your school days, your first instinct is probably to reach for a textbook. This non-digital option is still a solid one in the 21st century, and it provides learning advantages such as:
- One-time cost. Once you buy a textbook, you don’t need to make recurring payments or sign up for a subscription to keep paying for it. Plus, there are lower cost options, including borrowing books from the library or using a textbook in a class setting.
- Great for disciplined self-study. Students who like sitting down at a desk at a certain time and learning on their own enjoy using textbooks for this type of study. It’s also easy to take notes and make flashcards to study later.
- Huge library of options. Publishers have been releasing textbooks in nearly every language for decades, so you’ve got your choice of books to choose from.
- Focuses on reading and writing. With long lists of vocabulary words, sample sentences, grammar rules, and writing prompts, you’ll have many opportunities to practice reading and writing in your new language.
- Offline, screen-free format. There’s no risk of losing battery power or a notification grabbing your attention when you’re not on a screen!
The best language textbooks can be instrumental tools in a language journey. However, for students who prefer a more interactive experience, learning from textbooks may feel isolating or stressful. That’s where online language classes come in.
Benefits of using online language classes
Like textbooks, digital language learning platforms offer a great alternative for guided self-study. Built-in audio tools help you perfect your accent while providing more nuanced opportunities for learning. Most platforms make learning on-the-go easy, so the real variations boil down to each platform’s range of features, learning approaches, and additional resources.
Common advantages of using online language platforms include:
- Always stays up-to-date. There’s no need to buy a new edition of an online learning platform or app, since high-quality options are always updating their approaches to meet high educational standards.
- Interactive and engaging lessons. With games and other fun options to learn a language, students find themselves looking forward to their learning time and returning to learn more.
- Progress and growth tracking. Many digital platforms and apps allow you to measure your learning progress, including your current language fluency level and areas where you are improving.
- Focuses on speaking and listening. Students who plan to use their new language in conversation, or who prefer learning a language by listening, find that digital learning options are a good choice.
- Online, accessible format. When your language lessons are available on your phone, you can access them anywhere! Long commutes and contemplative walks can include listening to online lessons, digital stories, and other components of a digital platform.
Which is better: Textbooks or online classes?
So is online better than textbooks? It depends on your learning style. When it comes to the time it takes to learn a new language, both options can be helpful. Studies show that students can learn a new language just as effectively with textbooks or online classes, making it a matter of personal preference and choice of learning method. To see which option may work best for you, consider answering the following questions:
- What’s more important: writing or speaking?
- What learning approach works best for you?
- How far do you want to go with your learning?
- Do you plan to learn throughout the day, or do you prefer a designated study time?
- Is a high-quality textbook in your budget, or is a smaller monthly fee better for you?
No matter which option you choose, you can augment your learning experience with additional language tools. Listen to language learning podcasts to develop conversational skills and learn more about a chosen culture, or watch foreign language films to see conversation in context.
FAQ: Textbooks vs. online classes
Still have some questions about language learning textbooks or online platforms? Find the answers you need with our frequently asked questions for textbooks and digital classes.
Do language learning textbooks offer a complete curriculum?
If you’re learning exclusively from a print textbook, you can expect to build strong reading and writing skills in a new language. Textbook learning can be dry and repetitive, but it’s effective in helping you nail down vocabulary and verb tenses through extensive exercises.
But what about your speaking abilities? Even with an audio component (where you’ll be able to hear exercises spoken out loud by native speakers), you won’t know exactly how to improve your pronunciation. And language learning textbooks can make it more difficult to unlock the natural learning processes of immersion, which can help you adapt and learn during conversation.
Quality language learning platforms go above and beyond course lessons. While textbooks prepare you well for reading and writing, online platforms boost your speaking abilities. Most offer built-in audio features that allow you to hear text read aloud by a native speaker, so you can get comfortable with how various accents sound.
How do I find a high-quality language learning platform?
If you’re a beginner learner looking to take things slow, any exposure to a language is good exposure. Basic “freemium” online learning platforms will ease you into the fundamentals, and you can firm up your learning roadmap from there. But to really start your journey on the right foot—or get you back on track—you’ll want a comprehensive tool to guide your learning and build a strong foundation.
Rosetta Stone is the one language platform that provides a deep, multi-level course curriculum to take you well beyond the basics. It teaches through Dynamic Immersion (which experts say is the best way to learn) so that you can confidently hold conversations without blindly memorizing words or phrases. And because it taps into your innate learning abilities, you’ll be able to learn new languages faster.
Does online language learning fit my study routine?
Flexible learners will appreciate language learning platforms for how easy they are to use! Most platforms have mobile apps that support on-the-go learning, so you can take advantage of bite-sized lessons between classes or meetings.
Rosetta Stone’s app has the same great features as its web version, including Stories and Audio Companion, that you can listen to alongside your favorite podcast.
They also won’t require you to break out the pen and paper. Your learning happens within the app itself, and most platforms track your progress so you can go back and review the concepts you found tricky.
What’s the best online language learning option?
Online platforms can help you learn languages faster and in ways that stick, so you can feel confident in every conversation—and Rosetta Stone takes it one step further. With the TruAccent speech recognition engine, you can practice your accent and get feedback in real-time. You’ll be able to hone your pronunciation from the very first lesson.
And to get you conversation-ready, Rosetta Stone also offers a “milestone” lesson at the end of each unit. It mimics a real-world conversation, and you’ll have the opportunity to think on your feet while applying the vocabulary and grammar you’ve learned over four lessons. It all comes at the convenience of your device, and it’s all included in Rosetta Stone’s many online learning options.
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