Language learning apps’ use boosts during lockdown

06 / 04 / 2020

By Marwa Nassar - -

Oxford University said people’s interest in learning languages was manifested during the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as the use of language learning applications witnessed a surge. One popular language learning apps has claimed increased usage of more than 200%, while others are reporting new sales up more than 50%.

Academics maintain it shows a pent-up interest and wish to study languages. For a nation supposedly averse to speaking other languages, the British have been turning in numbers to foreign tongues as a first resort – in the absence of more traditional forms of entertainment.

‘It shows there are a lot of people who want to learn a language,’ says Oxford Professor Katrin Kohl. ‘It’s surprising how often you meet people in all walks of life who are taking language courses.’

Professor Kohl says that there is clearly interest. She also highlights that there is a huge pool of talent for languages in the UK.

In England, for more than one in five primary school children and almost one in six students at secondary level, English is a second language.

‘This means they already have well-developed language learning skills, a benefit that isn’t sufficiently valued at present.’

It might seem that, with globalization, everyone speaks English. But Professor Kohl says: ‘That simply isn’t the case. The world isn’t just culturally diverse, it’s also linguistically diverse. People care about their distinctive languages, as we can see in Wales and Ireland.

‘Developments such as this surge in interest shows that people see language learning as a fruitful way to spend time.’

She dismisses the idea that online and app learning will not assist people to take up classes in future: ‘Apps have revolutionized what’s on offer for learners. You can get quite a long way with apps and they can continue to support your learning, even if you later join a class. They incentivize you, send you reminders and introduce competition, allowing you to test yourself.’

Professor Kohl insists that ‘language learning thrives on variety of learning styles and options.’