JOHNSON’s first foreign-language class was typical: a gaggle of 14-year olds, hormones raging, are gathered in a classroom when Señora White strolls in. ¡Hola y bienvenidos a la clase de español! Puberty is a terrible time to begin a language. One’s own parents are embarrassing enough. But to repeat nonsense words with strange gurgling and burbling sounds while the cute new classmate watches from the next desk can be mortifying. For many learners, the experience leaves lifelong scars.

Language is social. But it is not always best learned socially. Today, the first encounter with a foreign language can skip the public-shaming entirely. Digital programs get those first few stuttered words out in the privacy of one’s one home. No over-cheerful teacher, no giggling classmates: whether one is 13 or 31, some things are best experienced alone before being tried with another. Language-learning may well be one.

Software programs like Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, Babbel and Mango offer what purport to be complete language courses. But it is a good idea to supplement…Continue reading

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