Customer Reviews

Rosetta Stone German Explorer

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I have my own language school, and hold a Master's degree, along with PA Teaching certification, in German. The ages of my students fall between 4 and 60. Although the program is definitely not appropriate for those under Kindergarten (a German word!)age, I heartily endorse it for students of all other ages. I love how students can practice all language skills: reading, writing, listening/comprehension, and speaking. The speaking/writing section features a scale which monitors pronunciation of words or phrases which are said by a native speaker. I think this is ingenious because it allows students to develop the correct accent. So many programs and word books tend not to stress this vital skill. What's the use of the phrases or words if students cannot hear them first pronounced correctly, and, then, have the chance to pronounce the words or phrases on their own? The native speakers pronounce everything very clearly (sehr deutlich!). One criticism: I would like to see some grammar explanations as part of this program. Even beginners, especially adult beginners, need to know the how's and why's of grammar so that they may learn to create their own sentences and to manipulate the language themselves. Otherwise, two very big thumbs up! Ein tolles Programm für alle!

I really enjoyed it. It starts with the most basic, with different situations and gets more complex as you learn! I have done other programs like this, but they put me to sleep. I can't wait to turn the computer on to see the German Explorer! The reason I only gave it four stars was because they didn't put in the english tranlation, just the german. If they had put down the german and the english together, it would be perfect!

I'm German and we bought this product for my fiancee who doesn't know any German. It starts with really simple things and uses repetition to get the point across, and then adds on slowly. Pictures help you with visualizing and remembering words better. We have tried other CD-roms that were very difficult, but this one is great and fun.

I've purchased many German language products (several types of software). This was the first software that made "sense" to me and actually seemed to be effective. The product seems very professional in it's design. Actually, after purchasing this through Amazon, I decided to spend quite a bit more and purchase the German I and II series. I recommend buying this software to see if it is effective for you. If so, purchase the Rosetta Stone Series I (or I and II). You'll be able to see if this software works for you before you spend quite a bit more to get the full blown training package (which you can also purchase through Amazon). I agree with other users who say that the software can be improved. For example, I do agree that the definite articles should be with every word on the screen you're viewing. However, I must say that this is still the best software I've come across so far. I think it is an excellent starter course for anyone wanting to learn German. Definitely keep a dictionary close by (German/English). The program throws you right into the language without English speakers giving assitance. This is effective, but can be challenging if you trying to learn a new word. Actually looking up words in a dictionary helps re-inforce what your viewing and learning. Great program, worth the inexpensive price.

This is by far the best language learning software out there for the DIY language learner. It uses total immersion without any English (this is a good thing). I own the full length courses for both Russian and German 1 and 2, and while it was no small investment, it was definitely worth it. The Rosetta Stone software is like the Pimsleur tapes in that it's the best of its kind and you get what you pay for. I bought this program to try it and passed it on to a friend when I bought my full courses.

Again, this is great software but you won't acheive any level of fluency with the abbreviated programs. But since the larger programs are extremely expensive, it's a good way to see if you like the system before you take the big plunge and spend the bucks on the full courses.

Both of my kids (8 & 9 years old) have used this program and are now understanding spoken and written German! We recently went to Germany to visit relatives and the kids were only able to smile, nod, and continually ask "What did they say?" They are able to understand many words now-I've only had it for a few days. The kids love it!

Within 10 min of using this program I knew that it was the one for me. The way that the program is set up it makes is simple to understand the meaning of the word and also to learn new words as well. I put the program in and do one lesson every night and go back to previous lessons to make sure that I still remember the information. It is so simple that I wish I would have gotten this along time ago. I am truly amazed I feel like it was made just for me.

I travel frequently and would like to be able to navigate on my own and speak simple phrases in order to be courteous. I have found better material in phrase books for the German language. This is far too elementary. It is useful as far as hearing correct annunciation of words, but not otherwise. Knowing "the horse jumped" is not helpful when trying to purchase train tickets, find directions, or reading a menu.