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Japanese Language Learning ProgramsLearn to Speak Japanese Using CDs and Self Study Programs
Learning Japanese will take time and patience. For those wishing to study independently, several language self-study options are reviewed in this article.
The best way to learn a language is to be immersed in it. And nothing truly takes the place of a live instructor. But often those are not practical options. There are many self-study programs designed to teach Japanese in record time—or so they claim. Following is a look at several language CD options, learn-while-you-drive programs, and language learning software for studying Japanese. Learn Japanese at Home Using Audio Language CDsThe Pimsleur series [Simon & Schuster Audio] offers a number of Japanese instructional audiobooks, most quite pricey, a few titles more reasonable. The Pimsleur method of learning a foreign language is highly regarded for its natural way of building vocabulary and sentence structure. Customer reviews of Pimsleur’s audio products are mostly quite good: the instruction is well organized and effective. The drawback is that they do not use a text, so visual learners may find them a bit frustrating. Complete Japanese: The Basics (CD) [Living Language; Random House, 2005] is text based with accompanying CDs. The reviews are generally good: the program is strong in grammar. However, some of the phraseology is stilted. Living Language offers several other titles as well. Berlitz International, Inc., is a company with a long history of language instruction. However, there are very few reviews of their Japanese titles, and of those that are reviewed the main complaint is the inclusion of impractical phrases. Learn Japanese While Driving In the CarDrive Time Japanese [Living Language; Random House, 2006] includes 4 CDs and a short booklet to help visual learners with vocabulary and phrases. Designed specifically to be listened to while driving, this program is nicely paced, with short lessons; this includes helpful cultural notes. Reviews are mostly good or excellent. Learn in Your Car, by Henry N. Raymond [PentonOverseas, 2006] can be purchased either as a complete set or in three separate levels. Reviews are so-so, most complaining that it moves too fast. Those with some Japanese knowledge find it to be a good review. Learn Japanese on the ComputerJapanese language software can generally be downloaded from the publisher’s website or purchased as a boxed set in book stores or online. The Rosetta Stone software company publishes an interactive Japanese language program, Rosetta Stone Version 3: Japanese Level 1, 2 & 3 [Rosetta Stone, 2008] that allows the learner to listen, view images, read (both English & Japanese) text, and even speak the language. Pricey for some budgets, it is an immersion program meant for long term study. It lacks the basic Japanese phrases occasional travelers might be looking for in a quick-learn program. Tell me More Japanese [Auralog, 2004], also pricey, is highly rated by those who already have some familiarity with the language, but for those new to Japanese the interface and apparent lack of structure may be frustrating. Learn Japanese Now [Transparent Language, 2004] is more reasonably priced, but the trade-off is that it lacks a comprehensive approach. It is recommended as a good supplement to in-class instruction. Making the Most of An Independent Japanese Language Study ProgramTo really get a grip on the Japanese language, the independent learner will likely need to take advantage of more than one program, as each has a different emphasis or teaching style. Plan to study a little bit every day. Consistency is more important than the amount of time spend during each session. And as much as possible, speak the words and phrases out loud. Repetition is key. Planning a trip to Japan? Check out the article A Successful Japanese Homestay .
The copyright of the article Japanese Language Learning Programs in Learning Japanese is owned by Margaret M. Williams. Permission to republish Japanese Language Learning Programs in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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