Language learning: the digital helps, but does not dethrone the human

Many teachers still feel fears about new technologies and focus on continuing traditional courses. Others, on the other hand, rely on these tools to enrich their courses, without making an apology without limit.

And it is, indeed with caution that the professor uses today digital in its courses. She works in "reverse class," asking her students to watch video clips before classes to prepare them, "a way to touch different sensory channels." It also uses platforms to create quizzes online; or makes "clouds of words"to work on representations. Géraldine Larguier often uses collaborative tools, tests them upstream and then gives her opinion to these colleagues via social networks.

And if, purely digital applications flourish, some startups have made the choice to stand out by a human dimension through the 2.0 tools. Among these EdTech, we can mention Absolutely French, a startup that allows expatriate spouses to learn French. "Digital is a tool", but everything is based on practical experiences. "We started from the premise that we retain more of what we live," explains Armelle Perben, founder of the startup . "Thus, through workshops, learners go to the market, make treasure hunt in Paris, slip into roles in small groups or cooking. " In addition to these scenarios,"Digital is mandatory," she says. Absolutely French is developing an e-learning platform so that, with the classroom, fun exercises are available online. An application is also in preparation that will offer a word in French every day. "It allows us to make ourselves known, learn and review," adds Armelle Perben.

This is the case of Charlotte, 10, who has an appointment with her coach Abby, once a week. For this young Francilienne and her parents, although enrolled in a course of "reinforced English" in addition to its four hours of living language weekly, this was not enough. After spending 2 years in Singapore with her expatriate family, the schoolgirl and her parents were afraid that by reintegrating the French school system, her level of English would drop. "There are still big concerns for language learning in France," said Elodie, Charlotte's mother. With VivaLing, once a week, like a video Skype type, the girl talks with his coach on "Halloween, Christmas, sport or horseback riding",themes to which it is sensitive. And it is, in addition to the practical aspect related to the choice of the time slot, for the "hyperpersonalization" and "discussion" side that the Charlotte family decided for VivaLing.