By exposing the student to native speakers, it allows them to hear the accent and cadence of the native language. Updated in 2007, it is able to use most of the current interactive tools. One disappointment: it is not Vista-capable. French Verb Games 1

This is a flash-card program which is used to memorize French verbs. This could be a tedious task, but is made easier by the games-oriented flash card architecture. It uses flash cards and a series of games to make learning fun. On the downside, it does not have a voice playback feature, nor does it have native speakers who can help the student understand the context and accent for the verbs. It is Vista-enabled, and up-to-date with a 2007 version.

Human Japanese

Of the 10 software programs found, this is by far the richest in multi-sensory language instruction. Japanese can be a difficult language for Westerners to learn, so an involving software program is important. It uses recordings of over 1,600 clips to help the student hear native speakers. It has an involving feedback mechanism, and allows the student to hear his/her own voice. It is Vista-ready, and has beautiful graphics.

The other 7 software packages were "also-rans," and will be briefly covered in the following reviews:

Russian Language Learning 1.0.1

This program uses the progressive Lether system, which is particularly well-suited to learning the language and using it quickly in the Russian environment. Introduced in 2006, it is Vista-ready and has well-founded graphics.

Mandarin Learning Assistant

This program takes a difficult language and makes it easier for students to pass their tests. It has no feedback mechanisms (voice, recording, native speakers), old graphics, and does not support Windows Vista. Given the difficulty of learning Mandarin for western speakers, this is not a recommended program.

Learn French Vocabulary 1.6

This program...

Its native speakers allow the student to hear French accents and cadence. It has social ties and games, and involves other students in those games. Its reliance on games, progressive learning and feedback makes it a fun program for both test-takers and those who want to learn the language.
Flash Cards for Learning 1

This is a straightforward flash card program for test-takers. With relatively simple graphics, no feedback, no native speakers, and no Vista support, this program is a "pass" for those looking for a rich learning experience.

Choice 1.4

This multi-language program is a flash-card program which shares all the drawbacks of Flash Cards for Learning 1. With poor graphics (dating to 2005), no feedback, no games and no social interaction, it does not involve the student in a way that promotes learning.

Learning Spanish Like Crazy

This system uses a series of native Latin American-Spanish speakers to enrich the experience, and give the student an exposure to the cadence and vocabulary of South America (as opposed to classic Spanish). It uses recordings, but does not offer games or interactive elements. It is not Vista ready.

Learn Chinese 2007 5.1

This program relies on rote memorization with flash cards. Despite its 2007 pedigree, the program does not take advantage of the latest interactive learning tools. Given the difficulty of learning this language for westerners, it should be a "pass."

Bibliography download.com. "Learning Language." 25 October 2007. download.com. 25 October 2007 http://www.download.com/Mandarin-Learning-Assistant/3000-2051_4-10610484.html?tag=lst-1.

NFLRC. "Multimedia Language Learning Software." 2006. NFLRC, University of Hawaii. 25 October 2007 http://nflrc.hawaii.edu/NetWorks/NW31/.

Educational Software Evaluation