subject: Rocket Italian Download - Will it Actually Work? [print this page] Author: Dan Thompson Author: Dan Thompson
Rocket Italian is an on-line Italian learning program. Does it really work?
WHAT DOES THE SYSTEM LOOK LIKE?
Rocket Italian is available as a set of CDs or as a download. The system consists of audio recordings, videos, and special software. In addition, you get access to a Learning Lounge where you can test your progress, and connect with other students and instructors.
The basic method is teaching Italian by a process called "visual association". Visual association is the way you learned to speak your native language. You SAW something and HEARD the word for it at the same time. In this manner you easily and quickly learned the meanings of words. Rocket Italian tries to replicate the process with the use of software, audio, and video.
DOES IT REALLY WORK?
IF you are ready to work with the program in a consistent way, Rocket Italian can be extremely powerful. Ideally, you should attempt to work with the lessons for a little time each day (30min to 1hr at least). The individual lessons are engineered to build on one another. Because of this, being consistent is important.
Learning a new language is alot like learning to ride a bike. For the first week or so you might think that you aren't getting anywhere. If you persist, however, you will hit a point where things suddenly "fall into place". You will see that you are suddenly able to hear most of the words in the audio recordings and can create basic sentences easily.
You can then add more vocabulary and advanced grammar to your repertoire.
IS ROCKET ITALIAN A GOOD FIT FOR EVERY STUDENT?
Some people find it hard to focus unless there is some outside pressure like an upcoming "exam" or an instructor checking their "homework".
Rocket Italian is a learn at home approach. It is powerful but you have to provide the consistency yourself.
If you feel you might need the pressure of a class situation in order to follow through, consider classes at a local college. Keep in mind that a class will cost much more and can take longer.
If you are serious about pick up the Italian language and are ready to put aside some time daily, Rocket Italian can have you speaking Italian in 8-10 weeks.
