LingQ helps you learn a new language online

After my post about getting Maple Leaf 2.0 radio going, with my challenge to Ben, Mark Kaufmann COO of Vancouver-based LingQ e-mailed me about his new site for learning a new language (or improving your skills in one you "kinda" know–for me that might be English ;) ).

As you know I’m Canadian-American, growing up in the States meant that learning French wasn’t high on the list of languages to learn (I took Spanish and Latin in high school and German in university).  Little did I know I’d be living in Canada as an adult (over ten years now) and knowing French would be a real asset.

So here I am, always wanting to learn French, but never finding the time to do it.  Looks like I might have a way to do it now.

LingQ lets you sign up and start learning a language, including English if that isn’t your native language.  Right now they have French, Russian, English, Spanish, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Italian, and Swedish as the available languages to learn (ooh Italian, hmmm).

I signed up and have chosen to learn French first.

When I log in there is a nice dashboard that shows me my progress (which is none right now) towards learning words, reading, listening, and speaking the language.

Not only do you have the web-based parts to learn from if you pay for a plus or premium membership you get a tutor to help you learn the language (the plus and premium packages are $39 and $79 per moth respectively). You don’t have to pay to learn though, the free membership lets you get going and then upgrade later if you wish.

LingQ also sports a forum and community of other language learners who can help you on your journey.  Looks spiffy.

Can’t wait to get going on my first assignment…