Babbel CEO Arne Schepker discusses the growth of language learning platforms, the impact of the Covid pandemic on digital learning, and the advantages and challenges of online language learning. The podcast also explores the desire for human interaction post-pandemic, the confidence levels of language learners, and the benefits of learning a language at an older age.
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Quick takeaways
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in demand for online language learning platforms, driven by the need for international working and personal relationships.
While online language learning offers convenience and consistency, human-to-human interaction remains crucial for learners to develop real-world language skills and deeper human connections.
Deep dives
The Rise of Online Language Learning
The popularity of online language learning has grown significantly, especially during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Many people are turning to language learning apps and platforms for daily lessons. The main challenge of learning a language online is the lack of face-to-face interaction, which makes it difficult to receive pronunciation feedback. However, language learning platforms like Duolingo and Babel have emerged to provide a variety of interactive and convenient learning methods. Babel, for instance, offers computer-led lessons and live video lessons with tutors. The advantages of online language learning include the ability to ensure consistency, break down learning into smaller pieces, and maintain frequent practice.
The Importance of Human Interaction
While online language learning has its advantages, human-to-human interaction remains crucial in language learning. Babel acknowledges that learners seek to converse with others in real-world situations and develop a deeper human connection. They believe that the role of human teachers will always be essential in the language learning journey. However, they also recognize the value of incorporating different learning methods, such as self-study, practicing with AI tutors, and applying the language in real-life situations.
Language Preferences and Motivated Learners
Babel's data reveals interesting language preferences among learners. In the USA, Mexican Spanish is the most popular course due to its geographical closeness and cultural ties. Babel focuses on motivated learners who aspire to become conversational in a language, rather than solely acquiring survival skills. These learners understand that language learning requires time, effort, and dedication. Babel's approach is not to gamify language learning but to provide serious content and lessons for learners who want to achieve fluency.
We explore the growth of language learning platforms with Babbel CEO Arne Schepker, and how the Covid pandemic lead to an increase in learning digitally.
Mr Schepker explains how more international working and personal relationships has led to an increase in demand. And how smartphones and the internet have changed that age-old aspiration of gaining fluency in another language.
Presenter: Dougal Shaw
(Image: Arne Schepker. Credit: BBC)
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