Lingoda Review

Thinking about learning a new language through Lingoda but not sure how effective it is? You’re in the right place.

In this article, we look through the details of this online language learning school and find out how it performs.

What is Lingoda?

The parent company, Easy Languages was launched in 2012 by Felix and Fabian Wunderlich who shared a common passion for languages. Based in Berlin, it was rebranded as Lingoda in 2013. With a growing base of students, it has widened its footprint to touch around 200 countries including the US.

Lingoda came into the spotlight with their promotional campaign about Lingoda Language Marathon sessions. Currently, these are broken down into the Lingoda Sprint and Mini Super Sprint and are conducted every month. These classes deliver a high-intensity learning program with cashback offers.

The best part is, with Lingoda, you’re not interacting with software or a chatbot. This is a language school that offers online classes with live teachers. The whole learning structure is based on Zoom through which the classes are conducted. So all you need is a computer or a smartphone and a steady internet connection.

Compared to other language learning apps, Lingoda offers fewer languages. However, the fundamental difference is Lingoda teaches through the traditional method of human-to-human interactions. You don’t interact with the software but with native-speaking teachers in a classroom that consists of a small group of students.

Note, this is a conscious decision by the brand and they decided to stay clear of automated classes. In fact, you’re encouraged to interact with not just the teachers but also with the students. This also helps with the learning process, allowing you more chances to practice.

The classes are available 24/7 so you can choose them as per your schedule. The focus is on following a learning methodology crafted by experts and offering personalized feedback to the students. The goal is to enable the students to speak like locals in a natural manner. It stresses on real-life topics, examples, and cultural aspects of the language.

Most importantly, Lingoda admits that learning a new language isn’t an overnight process. It needs the right lesson structure and planning and a balanced approach towards learning grammar and vocabulary. For that, Lingoda wants you to commit to a regular habit of learning.

How Does Lingoda Work?

The Lingoda course structure is based on Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) guidelines. This is an internationally recognized standard that allows a learner to progress from beginner (A1) to advanced (C1) levels. Each language level in Lingoda has two sublevels.

Since the courses are aligned with the CEFR levels you can easily pick the appropriate classes based on your level. In case you are not aware of your CEFR levels, Lingoda also has a CEFR level test.

Basically, Lingoda is like a traditional school that has shifted to an online mode. Once you enlist for a course, you will be guided through a steady line of progress. The lessons are based on learning vocabulary, reading passages, and comprehension questions. The primary learning methodology is based on the principle of immersion and sufficient practice.

To make this work, teachers use the target language in the class and take you through real-life scenarios and practice sessions. You can also download the material in pdf format and go through the details in your own time. In fact, if you come prepared you will be able to get more value out of the classes. With all the material readily available, reviewing the lessons is very simple.

The entire course is planned in detail and as a learner, you need to make a consistent effort. Lingoda expects that learners will go through the notes and study materials to make proper progress. Besides, the content is very well designed and it gives importance to reading and writing as well.

Keep in mind, each class is 60 minutes in length. To be honest, this method may not be the best for learners looking for bite-sized classes. But serious learners will definitely love the traditional approach.

Undoubtedly, the most important aspect of Lingoda is the direct interaction with the teachers and students. Every teacher is a native speaker and comes with an experienced background in teaching. Almost every Lingoda review provides positive feedback about the knowledge, professionalism, and class-leading ability of the teachers.

The maximum number of students in a class is five. The teachers invite each of the students to participate and interact in the classes. This ensures every participant in a class gets equal opportunity to practice and communicate.

Any language learning process progresses by learning through your mistakes. A live class ensures that you learn from the mistakes that others are making and mark your own mistakes. The structure also allows you to focus on areas that you may find more challenging.

Beyond that, you can also book one-on-one sessions with a teacher by paying an extra charge. In general, you will learn from different teachers as they are rotated through the classes. This will expose you to multiple ways of speaking within the same language.You can also book classes with a teacher of your preference.

Details of Lingoda's Interface

The Lingoda interface is very simple and easy to use. One of the best aspects is you can take a look at your entire syllabus and course structure. Lingoda also gives you the flexibility to move between the classes and change levels.

The first step is to create an account and log in to Lingoda. The interface has three main tabs:

• My classes

• Book classes

• My course

Once you have selected your level, you can book a class at your preferred time. Every class comes with a title and lesson description. You can also learn the name of the instructor and the number of seats available.

Additionally, there are filter functions that allow you to make easy selections. You can also see the order of the next series of classes based on your syllabus. Each learning level has 50 classes and once completed, you get a certificate for each level. Lingoda also shows how far you need to go before earning your next certificate. This acts as a motivation tool.

Each class is presented through slideshows. These can include new vocabulary, reading and speaking exercises, short stories, etc. The teacher may add notes on the presentation and these will be shared with all the students. In the end, the teacher also advises each student about their performance in the class, along with suggestions for improvement. In addition, there’s also a homework section that can be completed after the class is over.

Once you enroll in a class, the Zoom link for the class will be provided in your account. In most classes, the teachers start with a short introduction session and then proceed to the main lessons. Each teacher has their own method of going through the lessons. This adds to the classroom-like feel that Lingoda encourages.

Note, turning on your video camera in the class is optional. But using the camera is helpful for the interactions. Some of the classes also use the Zoom chat feature. Lingoda provides you with a downloadable version of the chat once the lesson is over. You can also offer feedback on the teachers through a separate form.

What Languages Does Lingoda Offer?

Lingoda offers only 4 languages:

• Spanish

• French

• German

• English

The English course is classified into normal and business English. You have to pay separately for each language.

Lingoda English

The English course is divided into two categories. The General English course offers lessons from A1 to C1 CEFR levels and Business English from A1 to B2 CEFR levels. The business course focuses more on formal business communications that can be helpful for professionals. Lingoda also offers the Linguaskill test from Cambridge to prove your English skills at a professional level.

Lingoda German

German is offered in A1 to C1 CEFR levels and is designed to help you speak confidently in any situation. Apart from grammar and pronunciation, Lingoda also focuses on developing reading and writing skills by teaching through a wide variety of topics.

Lingoda Prices

Lingoda offers four different plans for each language based on the intensity level you prefer. The charges are separate from group classes and private classes. You also get a free trial period of 7 days once you open an account.

The group classes start at $14 per class and the one-on-one classes start at $33 per class. Note, the Business English classes are priced higher than the others. On the whole, we feel that the rates are affordable.

For fast learning, Lingoda also offers separate marathon plans. By following these plans, you can cover up to 4 levels in a year. These courses are divided into 3-month, 6-month, and 12- month sessions.

In addition, Lingoda also offers special learning plans called the Mini Sprint and Mini Super Sprint at frequent intervals. You need to attend 15 classes per month and 30 classes per month for the two courses respectively.

The plan allows you to get 50% cash back with Mini Sprint and 100% cash back with Mini Super Sprint simply by attending all the classes. Keep in mind, the offer comes for a limited time, and the seats get filled up fast.

What We Like About Lingoda

Here are the main features of Lingoda that we like:

• It offers live classes through Zoom that are based on communication and interaction. This is traditional classroom-style learning and not an app-based platform.

• Excellent teachers who are native speakers and can offer deeper insights into a language. The energetic attitudes of the teachers are a great plus.

• It offers downloadable learning materials that are well structured and easy enough for beginners to understand.

• There are multiple affordable subscription plans that allow you to proceed as per your budget. Furthermore, you can also get 100% cash back by opting for the Mini Super Sprint plan.

• The course schedule is flexible and classes are available 24/7. You can find a class as per your schedule no matter where you are.

• The interface is super easy to use and is mobile-friendly.

What Could Use Improvement

Here are a few points that could be better:

• The rigid class structure and hour-long sessions may not be suitable for all learners.

• Lingoda only offers courses in 4 languages.

• You may need to book the classes well in advance to find a vacant spot.

• The Sprint rules are complicated and need a thorough understanding.

Alternatives to Lingoda

If you’re looking for a more informal method of learning, here are some of the best language learning softwares on the market today:

Rosetta Stone - It offers well-polished content with a focus on interactivity and immersion. It offers 25 languages and the lessons are 30 minutes long on average. A good choice for serious learners.

Pimsleur - Pimsleur makes use of the spaced repetition method through an audio-based method of learning. It offers an effective learning methodology with the right amount of motivation that works for beginners as well as intermediate learners.

Mondly Languages - Mondly offers compact and visually rich lessons that teach the vocabulary required for handling practical scenarios. The app also uses augmented reality and virtual reality to deliver an immersive experience for the learners.

Babbel - Babbel offers 14 languages through high-quality course content. The focus is on learning words and phrases that are used in daily life. It comes with an easy to use mobile interface that offers 10 to 15 minute long lessons.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, Lingoda is one of the best online language learning experiences currently available.

The hour-long lessons through live sessions make Lingoda stand out from the other language learning software. Not only do you get to interact with actual people, but you also get real-time feedback from live teachers. A whole range of students loved the authentic learning experience and the affordable rates.

That said, users on a tight schedule may not prefer the long lessons and the high commitment levels needed. Each learner is different and it’s best that you try the 7-day trial to find out if the methodology works for you.

If you do prefer the classical learning method with a modern touch, Lingoda courses are a great option for building your foundations.