As I prepare to expand my online travel magazine beyond the U.S. and Great Britain learning additional languages is becoming a priority. Foreign language education is available through a local community college but I find that the classroom environment is not ideal for me so I've researched tools that I can use on a more flexible schedule in my home or office.
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I discovered several programs, three of which are presented here along with a product which includes translation and dictionary software in over 50 languages. Each has its own apparent strengths and each is currently in use in businesses, public and private schools, home schooling environments and, by individuals.
I am testing modules from two of these organizations in order to determine which works best for myself and my organization. Here is a brief description and list of benefits for each of these products:
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Rosetta Stone Language Software
Probably one of the best know foreign language software companies, Rosetta Stone
 Language Software has been used by millions of people to learn a new language.
30 languages are available on CD-ROM and through online subscription. I had some brief (and very positive) experience with this version in the language lab at the local community college. I'm now testing the online subscription version of the beginning French program.
Promoted as "The Fastest Way to Learn a Language" the software uses carefully sequenced cirriculum which gradually introduces new words, phrases and more complex grammer with real life pictures and native speakers.
The software teaches four language skills—listening comprehension, reading, writing and speaking. A microphone is required to use the speaking portion, but they have a unique way of visually comparing your pronouncation to the native speakers.
The software has been used at NASA, West Point, the U.S. State Department and at over 10,000 schools. A free demo is available.
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Rosetta Stone - Free 2-Day Shipping in the U.S.
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Transparent Language
The Transparent Language Store
 has a complete line of language learning software in over 100 languages targeted at the consumer, education, government and corporate markets. Products include video immersion environments, flashcard tools and audio courses.
In addition to learning products Transparent Language also provides products for translation including dictionaries and reference sets.
Learning tools can be purchased individually or in complete Learning Suites:
• Learn Language Now
• Before You Know It
• Everywhere Audio
• LinguaMatch Talking Phrasebook and Tutor
• KidSpeak
• Easy Translator
• Say It In – language immersion environment
• Lexicon Translation Dictionary
(some products only available for Windows PCs)
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Holiday Sale
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Power-Glide Foreign Language Courses
The Power-Glide way to Learn a Foreign Language
 is a blend of innovations based on up-to-date understanging of linguistics and learning psychology. Power-Glide programs utilize the best practices from around the world with each strategy applied for its best application.
Self-paced courses make it possible for teachers or parents who don't know the target language to help a child learn without any prior training. Power-Glide courses are filled with ideas to keep students motivated and progressing with a language course for every age and learning level.
• Spanish, French, German, Latin or ESL
• Elementary School, Middle School, High School or College level
i-Combo Courses, new from Power-Glide, make learning an adventure with:
• Adventure based themes
• Workbook and audio CD's
• Online interactive games
• Listen & record lessons
• Automated tracking
• Automated grade book
• Online lesson calendar
• Online testing & assessment
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Babylon translation @ a click
A single click translator dictionary, converter and information tool provides a Free Trial Download.
Click on any word or text to translate it.
Download Babylon 6 for FREE
• Simple and intutive to use with single click activation
• Full text translation
• Wikipedia content
• Oxford Concise Dictionary and Thesaurus
• Translates texts in 50 languages
• Converts currencies, time zones and measurements
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