In what is a nearly perfect compliment to last week's post about creating authentic tutoring opportunities with people who are fluent in both the native language and desired language comes an article about a new program designed to be "immersion on demand."
Conversifi seeks to go beyond the traditional online language course by connecting language learners with native speakers via video chat, providing a real conversation. What better way to practice a new language than to actually practice it with someone who has spoken that language their entire life?
The founder of Conversifi designed the program to be a supplement to formal instruction as a way to master the desired language and to learn about the other person's culture.
I can see this program being a great resource for CALL courses. Previously, I've looked into Skype for Education options which connect classrooms around the world to give students new opportunities to "visit" places otherwise unaccessible. Conversifi can help do the same thing on an individualized basis, connecting students with other students from around the world and allowing them to both practice the other's language.
Koinange, K. (2019, Oct. 16). "10 Baltimore edtech startups bringing new tools to the classroom and beyond". Retrieved from: https://technical.ly/baltimore/2019/10/16/10-baltimore-edtech-startups-new-tools-classroom-innovation-week/
Hi Ryan,
ReplyDeleteI agree that having a real conversation with a native speaker is the best way to learn another language. This week I wrote about a language learning app called HelloTalk, which is similar to Conversifi. Connecting people from different parts of the world to practice though conversations is a much more authentic and meaningful way to learn a new language. It also helps the learner get a taste of the culture and experiences of the native speaker. Using Conversifi would be great practice for students learning a language at school. It is amazing how technology helps us connect to people around the world! Thank you for sharing.
Lynne
Utilizing a program like Conversifi seems extremely beneficial when trying to learn a new language. Does this program make sense for ESL students in the US who are already surrounded by native English speakers? To me this program would be really helpful if the student was trying to learn a language that would otherwise not be exposed to.
ReplyDelete