During this time of crisis and quarantine, many people have resorted to mobile apps to learn many things, including the English language. Although they are a valid resource to use, using one of these apps comes with pros and cons which I want to take you through.
The Pros
Flexible Schedules
If you are one of those people that love doing things in their own time, you are not alone, and mobile apps will be perfect for you to use. You don’t have to worry about logging in on time to meet your online teacher, missing a class because you are under the weather, or simply slept in.
Learn Anywhere
You can take advantage of the app even while you are waiting in line at the supermarket, waiting to see your doctor, basically at any place that you are.
Stability
Since most apps use services from trusted companies to stay up and running all the time, you don’t have to worry about them dying or failing on you. Sites like https://internet-vikings.net/servers provide you with further information on this.
Pricing
Although there are free apps, even those you have to pay for will charge but a fraction of what it would cost you to register in a formal language school or institute.
The Cons
Lack of Control
If you have issues with discipline and focus, then the flexibility of a mobile app will work against you. It will be hard for you to stay on track and make progress without that strict structure and routine that comes from studying at a school or with a teacher.
Lack of Teachers and Conversation
The fact that you don’t have a teacher means that you also don’t have someone you can talk to about your particular doubts. Also, the lack of classmates might keep you from developing conversational skills as well as you could when at a classroom where you can interact with others.
Net Down, App Down
Even the most stable mobile app depends on your Internet connection, which means that if your connection isn’t stable and smooth your app’s performance will also suffer. It is an important con to consider if you spend a lot of your time at places with a poor connection, as it will hinder your available time to use the app.
All in all, the pros and cons highly depend on how you are as an individual and what are your living conditions. Don’t feel bad if you find that mobile apps aren’t for you but if they are, don’t hesitate to take advantage of them and learn English during the lockdown.