Learning English in the Internet Age

More and more people are learning English, and this is partly due to the influence of the World Wide Web. The ‘Internet Age’ has made it almost a necessity to know English at least a little. It has also made language learning easier, even if access to quality English instruction is not available.

English is the universal language online

If you spend any time on the Internet, you’ll find that it seems to be designed for people who can read English. While many sites will have translations available, specifically internationally known sites and sites owned by international companies, the everyday website or blog you may come across in your search will contain information in English. Translation programs may be available, but reading the site in English will be the best way to get your information.

Why is this? Perhaps English has become the language of the Internet due to its prevalence in the economic world. That’s the language of money and technology, two of the things that drive the Internet. People with money speak it, at least as a secondary language, so by posting things in English online, you’ll reach the vast majority of your potential market.

English can be learned online

For those who don’t know the language, this can seem daunting. However, the internet age has also caused a change in the way people can learn it. It is now entirely possible to learn English online, even if you are on a very small budget.

One way to learn is to enroll in an English as a Second Language course. These courses vary greatly in their effectiveness and cost. The best programs will cost a lot, but if you need to learn English for your job, this may be the best option. These online courses often have reading, writing, and listening components. Some may require a microphone so you can speak the language as well.

If enrolling in an online course is out of your budget, you can learn English for free online with a little creativity and persistence. There are several websites that will post grammar rules, vocabulary, and learning exercises for you to access without paying anything. Even if you’re enrolled in a course, these sites can help you prepare for tests and projects.

The internet is also full of games that can make learning a new language fun. This will help encourage students to stick with their decision to learn the language. Again, many of these programs are offered for free.

The World Wide Web also provides students of English with the opportunity to interact with native speakers on a regular basis. Forums, chats and online communities allow students to practice written English in a calm environment. Surfing the Internet can also help students practice reading in English.

Considerations when learning English online

If you are going to use the Internet to help you learn, keep a few things in mind. First, many websites have content that is not written with proper grammar. Use websites as sources of information in conversational English, not proper grammar.

If you choose to enroll in an online program, determine which dialect of English you want to learn. There are quite a few differences between British and American English, for example. Then make sure the program has a good reputation before you pay anything. With so many free options available, you need to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.

Finally, the computer will never replace personal conversations with native speakers. Once you’ve mastered the basics, find a way to converse with native speakers. You may even be able to use the computer for this by taking advantage of video chat programs, but make sure you get a chance to practice what you’ve been learning.