Learn to Speak Spanish: Deluxe Traveler's Edition

The software has some unusually helpful features, like a "pronunciation gauge," which compares your own pronunciation to that of a native speaker. The scoring tended to be generous (we rated "native" on our first try and never hit "tourist" unless we were deliberately trying to mangle a word) but still was entertaining--and motivating for those who have the urge to compete with themselves.

The program also tests your reading comprehension by letting you respond to written questions verbally, using voice recognition, the effect being that you answer just as you would in a classroom.

Almost everything here talks--every new page has a talking introduction (these can be switched off), words can be clicked on for pronunciation, and there's even a talking dictionary. You may want some privacy, because even if you use headphones, you'll be talking often enough to annoy the people around you.

Installation of the software is a breeze compared to the mind-bending task of assembling the microphone, which comes in several pieces and resembles a Chinese puzzle.

We found that some of the various Internet links were no longer functioning, and the program crashed once during our test. Nevertheless, we were very pleased with this package overall. We enjoyed using it and would recommend it as a friendly approach to learning the basics of Spanish. --Peter Moksha

Amazon.com Product Description
Learn to Speak Spanish: Deluxe Traveler's Edition provides everything the enthusiastic traveler needs, including a microphone, Fodor's Mexico 2002 travel guidebook, and even an interactive Spanish-language DVD featuring the Standard Deviants. With five CDs, including an audio CD that offers language exercises, plus a workbook, Learn to Speak Spanish is packed with content and special features. More than 100 lessons and a talking dictionary advance your Spanish language skills. Plus, speech recognition technology, an assessment test, and progress tracking let you customize the program to meet your individual needs.

This applications works in both Windows 98 SE and Windows XP. Make sure you download and install all the patches for your Operating System...As well as install the latest versions of DirectX free from Microsoft and QuickTime.