Many learners of Spanish language find that software accelerates their learning. Second language acquisition research actually does provide insight into reasons that some softwares are more helpful than others. Many language learning softwares do something that books can’t do–either they provide audio, visuals, interactivity, or all three. Most language softwares either fall under the broad category of audio CD’s, comprehensive language learning programs, or somewhere in between. Generally speaking, audio CD’s are priced much lower than comprehensive language learning software that includes engaging visuals and interactive activities. Because Spanish is such a popular language to study, most language software companies produce products for this language, and many small companies do as well. So there are many choices!
Before you buy a software, decide where and when you will be using it, as well as whether you want audio only or audio with visuals. This will help you narrow down the type of software you need. For example, if you know you’ll study in your car, then you also know you need an audio-based (ie, not a visual-based) program, which tend to be less expensive. But if you know you want to study at your home computer, and you are a visual learner, you can steer away from the audio-based softwares and look more toward the more comprehensive programs like Rosetta Stone, Transparent, and others.