Language Learning Techniques Series #1: Learn Through Skype

 

One unique language learning technique is through Skype.  Skype, an online video chat tool created in 2003, allows for long distance conversations between persons through the use of web cameras.  For the language student, this produces a unique opportunity; through the use of this software, a language student may contact instructors for live lessons as well as interact with fellow language students.

To obtain Skype, you should head to this website, and download Skype for free: http://www.skype.com/intl/en/home/.  Afterwards, join Mixxer, a free website for languages exchanges via Skype: http://www.language-exchanges.org/.

Mixxer allows for both personal chats with fellow language students as well as group lectures.  To chat personally, you need only search through the list of active users, and find those who are studying your desired language.  Groups, however, allow for teachers to organize their students.  A teacher may or may not allow you access to their student list, but if you do, you will have better access to professional instruction as well as a more unified community of language students.