IMMERSION TOOLBOX
Communication Practice
italki
Use italki to get the speaking practice you need to get fluent from the comfort of home. Their community boasts over 3 million users and thousands of tutors to choose from, including free language exchange partners and low-cost professional teachers.
Tandem
Tandem connects language exchange partners based on language, location, and interests. Chat via audio or video calls, text, or recorded voice notes. The in-app correction and translation tools help you keep chatting even when your grammar and vocab are still a bit shaky.
HelloTalk
Just as we have to speak to get better at speaking, we have to write to get better at writing. HelloTalk lets you practice writing in a free, low-stress way by texting with native speakers around the world. Practice new words, phrases, and structures, and get instant feedback.
Video Immersion Tools
Netflix
TV shows and movies are a great way to immerse yourself, practice your listening skills, and strengthen your vocabulary. Netflix is one of the best streaming sites for language learning due to their large library of foreign content and extensive dubbing and subtitle options.
Language Reactor
Language Reactor is a powerful Chrome extension that supercharges subtitles on Netflix and YouTube. From interactive subtitles, to a nifty pop-up dictionary, to the ability to save words and phrases and export to Anki, this tool is a game changer!
NordVPN
Installing a Virtual Private Network unlocks tons of foreign language TV shows and films that are otherwise blocked. VPNs also keep you safe when using unsecured Wi-Fi networks at coffee shops, etc. I’ve tried many, but NordVPN is my favorite.
Audio Immersion Tools
Pimsleur
Pimsleur is one of the most popular self-study language learning programs on the planet. The system was developed by the late Dr. Paul Pimsleur, an applied linguist, university professor, and a founding member of the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). The Pimsleur Approach promotes three core principles: ① Anticipation & Active Recall, ② Spaced Repetition, and ③ Core Vocabulary (approximately 500 new words per level).
Overcast
Podcasts are one of the best tools for language learning: ① they are usually free, ② they cover a diverse range of topics, ③ they enable automatic syncing of new content to your device, ④ they strengthen your listening skills, and ⑤ they allow you to learn as you commute, walk, do chores, etc. There are dozens of good podcast apps to choose from, but I think that the Overcast app is currently the best option available on iOS. For Android, try out either Google Podcasts or the Spotify app.
Glossika
Glossika is a website and an app developed by polyglot Mike Campbell to help you master vocabulary and grammar in context. Based on your level, interests, and performance, Glossika's algorithm will automatically repeat carefully curated sentences at just the right time to optimize memory. Every phrase includes high-quality audio recorded by a native speaker, and can be practiced in a variety of exercises to strengthen your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Reading Immersion Tools
LingQ
LingQ (pronounced “link”) was co-founded by Steve Kaufmann, a polyglot who's learned 20 languages using the same input-based method the app is built upon. Learn vocabulary and grammar in context using either lessons from their extensive library or importing your own content from blogs, news sites, YouTube, Netflix, etc.
Kindle + Audible
The free Kindle app lets you improve your reading skills on any device (iOS, macOS, Android, Windows, etc.). Or get a purpose-built e-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite to reduce eye strain. leverage the power of the built-in dictionary to quickly look up new words. Get the same title on Audible to follow along as you read and boost your listening skills.
Readwise Reader
Readwise Reader is a powerful read-it-later app that consolidates the functions of multiple apps in one tidy package. With the app and browser extension, you can save and highlight a wide range of digital resources, including online articles, Twitter threads, PDFs, EPUBs, newsletters, YouTube transcripts, and more.
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