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Busuu Review - Is it worth it?

written by: Krystof-Sandor Harfst

Table of Content

Summary

Pros	Cons
Tailored Study Plans: Lessons based on everyday topics relevant to language goals; customizable study schedule with reminders.	Limited Language Options in Free Version: Only one language in the free version; need Premium for more.
Comprehension Checks: Effective testing of new words in context, focusing on understanding usage in conversations.	Variability in Quality: Course quality varies among languages; some lack features like videos and comprehensive feedback.
Cultural Tips: Insights on cultural nuances enhance learning and communication effectiveness.	Possibility of Incorrect Corrections: Peer corrections may be inaccurate if non-native speakers include the target language in their profile.
Social Community: Dedicated tab for connecting with native speakers, exchanging messages, and receiving feedback.	Need for More Entertainment: Lessons may feel repetitive; incorporating more engaging methods like those found in Netflix or music could enhance user experience.

Busuu impresses with tailored study plans based on everyday topics, effective comprehension checks, and insightful cultural tips. However, its free version restricts users to learning only one language, and course quality varies across languages, with some lacking features. Additionally, while its social community fosters interaction with native speakers, there's a risk of receiving inaccurate corrections, and some users may find the learning experience lacking in entertainment value.

What is Busuu?

Busuu is an easy-to-use language learning platform available on the web, iOS, and Android. Users can practice with native speakers. Founded in 2008 by Bernhard Niesner and Adrian Hilti, it started with a free website and later introduced premium membership for full access. The name "Busuu" comes from an endangered language in Cameroon. After securing funding in 2012, the company expanded globally and moved its headquarters to London. It launched Busuu for Organisations in 2016, tailored for universities and businesses. Over the years, it introduced innovations like voice-activated lessons for Google Home and a VR app for Oculus devices. In 2021, education tech company Chegg acquired Busuu for $436 million.

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How does Busuu work?

Busuu has courses for different levels of language skills, ranging from Beginner A1 to Upper Intermediate B2. Some languages, like Spanish and English, even have Advanced C1 courses. These levels are based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which measures language proficiency.

I tried Busuu's Beginner (A1) lessons in various languages like Spanish, French, and Chinese. After selecting my level, Busuu created a personalized study plan based on how much time I could spend learning each day.

For additional support, Busuu offers Busuu Live, a tutoring service available with a Premium membership. With this, you can work with a tutor through Busuu's lessons, get detailed explanations, and practice speaking the language. The tutoring sessions are 45 minutes long and can be scheduled at your convenience.

What I like about Busuu?

Tailored Study Plans: Busuu offers lessons based on everyday topics relevant to your language goals, including general learning and business-specific content. Users can customize their study

schedule, receiving reminders at chosen times.

Comprehension Checks: Busuu employs effective language learning strategies by testing users' comprehension of new words and phrases in context. For instance, users must understand how phrases are used in conversations rather than just translating them.

Cultural Tips: Busuu provides cultural insights to enhance language learning, such as when and how to use greetings appropriately. These tips help users avoid misunderstandings and communicate more effectively.

Social Community: The app facilitates social interaction with native speakers through a dedicated tab. Users can connect with native speakers, exchange messages, and receive feedback on their written or verbal responses, fostering a supportive learning environment.

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Get 10% discount

What could be better about Busuu

Limited Language Options in Free Version: The free version of Busuu only allows users to learn one language out of the 14 available. To access multiple languages, users must upgrade to the Premium membership.

Variability in Quality: The quality of courses varies depending on the selected language. For example, the Spanish course offers clear audio, video skits, and comprehensive feedback, while the Chinese course lacks videos, has lower audio quality, and provides limited feedback.

Possibility of Incorrect Corrections: While Busuu's social aspect allows for peer corrections, there's a risk of receiving inaccurate feedback from non-native speakers who include the target language in their profile.

Need for More Entertainment: While Busuu's lessons are relevant, some users may find the learning method repetitive and lacking in entertainment value. Incorporating more engaging learning methods, such as those found in Netflix or music, could enhance the user experience.

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