Language Learning Apps for Intermediate Learners: What the Experts Actually Recommend

What Language Acquisition Experts Actually Say About Learning Apps

A recent article on NU.nl highlights the valuable role language apps play in the journey toward fluency, especially when combined with other learning methods. As creators of LanguageLeveler, we agree with this message.

The article features insights from Dutch language experts: Wander Lowie (Professor of Second Language Acquisition at the University of Groningen) and Chiel van der Veen (Researcher in language development and education at Windesheim and VU Amsterdam). Their guidance is particularly useful for intermediate to advanced learners.

So what exactly do they say and how does that relate to LanguageLeveler?

Why Real-Life Language Practice Beats Grammar Books

Lowie warns that if you start learning a language by diving into grammar rules and exercises, you're missing the point. "If you study a grammar book from cover to cover, you don't actually use the language, so you don't learn it," he says.

The solution? Communicate early, even if it's messy. Keep a dictionary nearby and focus on using the language instead of overthinking it.

What Language Experts Say About Language Learning Apps

Apps provide structured practice, building confidence and foundational skills. Lowie acknowledges this advantage: apps are excellent for getting learners comfortable with essential vocabulary and basic phrases. This structured approach helps reduce anxiety and gives learners a solid start.

Immersion Strategies That Work for Intermediate Learners

According to both experts, immersion is key. That doesn't just mean going abroad, it can also mean:

• Watching films (with subtitles matched to your level)
• Reading books in your target language
• Listening to podcasts
• Speaking with people, even if you feel awkward

Van der Veen even recommends starting with children's books or programs. They're full of simplified and clear language, ideal for reinforcing core structures in a natural way. This is something we have available in the app!

Language Apps Are Supplements; Not a Complete Method on Their Own

Here's the part we found especially validating: both experts agree that apps for beginners like Duolingo can be helpful but only as a supplement. They can help you get started with basic sentences, but they don't offer real-life feedback or the unpredictability of actual conversation or content.

That's exactly how we designed LanguageLeveler to work: not as a one-size-fits-all solution, but as a bridge between structured study and real-world language use, focused specifically on intermediate learners.

How LanguageLeveler Bridges Structured Study and Authentic Language

Here's how LanguageLeveler aligns with expert recommendations:

• Authentic Reading: Dive into complete stories and books in Italian, Dutch, or English, encountering language naturally in context.
• Targeted Vocabulary: Learn new vocabulary chapter by chapter and always in context, making it easier to retain and recall.
• Instant Simplification: Simplify any challenging paragraph with one tap, making authentic reading accessible without breaking your flow.
• Structured Learning: Structured yet flexible support to help you transition smoothly from intermediate to advanced fluency.

Using Language Learning Apps Effectively: The Expert-Recommended Approach

Ultimately, the experts highlight that language apps are powerful tools, especially when used alongside authentic content and real-world interaction. Apps help build foundational skills, reduce anxiety, and support consistent practice.

With LanguageLeveler, you can confidently integrate structured learning into your broader language journey, combining app-based convenience with the authentic reading experience that actually builds fluency.

Ready to put the experts' advice into practice?

Try LanguageLeveler today — free on iOS and Android →

Further reading: How context-based vocabulary learning breaks the intermediate plateau →