Topic: news The Solo Approach: Chinese Learning Softwares

I totally agree with you David! I LOVE Livemocha !!! <3

I have used Rosetta Stone, and used to think it was the best for visual learners, like myself. I want to learn to read, write, listen, and speak at the same time - not choose one or two over the others.

Yesterday, I gave Livemocha a try, and forget Rosetta Stone (pricey & even the hacked torrent gets blipped with every update)!! I'm sticking with Livemocha. I've lived in China a few years, so I have basics picked up from listening and repeating. Livemocha feels like the formal training that I've been looking for without the expense, or hassle of going across town to a class. YEAH!

I can choose to do lessons, games, help critique others' writings and voice recordings in English, or chat with native Chinese speakers to test my pinyin writing or pronunciations. It's great!! :D :D

I recommend this to all beginners to Chinese, especially those that like to study quietly, alone, and without cost. The true cost is sharing your knowledge with others, what a great trade-off!!!