Memrise Adds Fun to Learning Language
While there are a multitude of language-learning websites and apps available, companies are constantly adding new innovations and integrating developing software to either improve existing ones or create better ones altogether. One startup dedicated to helping users develop language-learning skills is Memrise, which takes a somewhat less rigidly academic approach, so much so that its developers claim it “makes learning languages and vocab so full of joy and life that you’ll laugh out loud.” That is certainly a lofty claim for a learning app, but it seeks to do this in several ways.
Memrise allows you to “learn on your terms” with mobile tech support features for both Android and iOS and as a web based desktop platform. It even has an offline mode so that users can continue learning when they are without an Internet connection. Basic courses cover the alphabet, verbs and theme vocabulary. The app introduces each new letter, word or expression with an image, some quite amusing, and a native speaker pronounces it. The learner then must recognize and select the new term from a group of possible answers. In another task, the user spells out language translations. Each course also has a gamification component, with points gained depending on performance.
Memrise has courses in over 200 languages, and the fact that anyone can use it anywhere, even without an Internet connection, means computer support needs are never problematic to learning. One innovative aspect of the software is that it adapts to personal learning styles and performance, making it easier to learn fast without forgetting. Especially handy for offline use, you can create your own flashcards online or from the app, which you can print or to which you can add multimedia while online to make it more fun and interesting. Teachers can also use Memrise to create materials and manage groups of students from their dashboards.
Along with gamification to make it more fun, Memrise also does so by allowing you to compete with friends. To keep from being too predictable and boring, it switches up material, learning methods, and games as you continue to use it. The app actually goes beyond language, presenting courses in music among others that includes a range of things like ear training as well as teaching individual classical pieces, composers, and history. Users can also contribute content, and there are extensive analytics including graphs, charts, and statistics to encourage motivation. All in all, Memrise can make learning fun and easy in new ways.
Filed under: startups