Despite the burgeoning implementation of LMS online language courses in school districts, the U.S. Department of Education reports that out of every 100 college credits taken in the U.S., only 8.6 are for a language class. On the other hand, a recent Eurobarometer survey tells us that about 56% of Europeans have at least one second language. It’s an unfortunate truth: the U.S. places far behind other countries in second-language acquisition.
The U.S. is among the most well-off nations on the planet, with access to the best technology. Given this, why aren’t more Americans capitalizing on language acquisition resources such as online and in-person tutors, and university and LMS online language courses?
Of course, LMS online language courses are in a category of their own. Unlike many other topics which survive on paper, language needs to come off the page, into the student’s head, and out of the mouth–often.
For learning a language, a blended learning environment is really ideal. In order to become fluent, students need to listen to and repeat words and phrases. Although an online course can ask learners to listen to and repeat, pronunciation is something that needs to be coached in person, and from an early point in a student’s learning experience. And when possible, it’s best to combine face-to-face with online learning regardless of the topic.
When used in blended learning, LMS online language courses can be truly efficient. Significantly for high schools across the U.S., LMS online language courses help answer a range of problems, including: insufficient language course offerings, language teacher shortages, no interest in language acquisition, lack of AP classes in some areas, lack of physical space in schools, and most of all, lack of funding. As schools across the country plan to downsize their education programs, online tools are becoming an increasingly appealing option.
Additionally, LMS online language courses can help foster the confidence of shy students when interaction with other students is online and required. Online tools like LMSs, VoIP providers, instant messaging, screen and audio recordings, and podcasts provide endless opportunities for applying and sharpening language knowledge.