Sliced Bread - Series 17: Language Learning Apps

Jul 30, 2026 27 min

About this episode

<p>Can you really learn a new language from apps like Duolingo? Sliced Bread listener Nathan Phelps has been teaching himself Japanese. He’s tried textbooks, tutors, and crucially, language apps on his phone - and he came to us because he’s seen these apps claiming to be “backed by science” to help you “learn a new language, fast”. More recently he’s even seen apps boast about “AI powered features” to help you practice your language skills, available on premium subscriptions.</p><p>Nathan wants to know: are language apps an effective way to learn? How do they compare to other ways of learning? And can AI really supercharge your language skills? To find out more, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Professor Elizabeth Wonnacott, Professor of Language Science at the University of Oxford and Director of the Language Learning Lab in their Department of Education. All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at <a href="mailto:sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk">sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk</a> OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807. RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT</p>

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