A quick search in your favorite app store will reveal hundreds of language learning apps. However, choosing an effective one can be a bigger challenge.
One such promising language learning app is Promova. It is a comprehensive and engaging platform designed to make language learning effective, enjoyable, and accessible.
In this review, let’s explore Promova’s unique features and learning methods to assess its effectiveness in mastering foreign languages.
What is Promova?
The word itself, “Promova” (/prɔˈmɔvʌ/), comes from the Ukrainian word for “speech,” but it also plays on the phrase “Pro-Mova,” meaning “about language.”
Promova was founded in Ukraine in 2019 by Misha Galian, Andrew Skrypnyk, and Valeria Vakulska. Since then, it has grown into a widely recognized language learning platform with over 17 million downloads worldwide.
The platform offers a wide range of language learning tools to improve skills in 12 languages, including the most taught English, Spanish, French, Italian, and more. These are:
- Bite-sized lessons for quick, practical learning.
- AI-powered tools to enhance learning efficiency.
- 1-on-1 online tutoring with professional English teachers.
- Group lessons for structured learning in a small group.
- Accessibility features, including Dyslexia Mode, White Noise support, and an ASL course.
- A global community of learners for motivation and support.
- Free English conversation clubs to improve speaking fluency.
- Additional resources like books, videos of tutors, and blog articles.
Promova has also gained recognition, ranking the app among the Top 10 Language Learning App Grown by SensorTower in 2021. Among the Top 10 on the AppStore, and it has also placed among the Top 20 on Google Play for Free Educational Apps
From the outside, Promova seems like a good way to learn languages online, but let’s take a closer look at its features.
How does Promova Work?
Learners can download Promova from the App Store, the Google Play Store, and the HUAWEI AppGallery or access it directly from the web platform.
After you create an account and sign in, Promova asks you which language you want to learn and what your current learning goals are (e.g., education, career, travel, etc.). Based on your choices, the app creates a customized learning path.
These are the languages available to learn with the Promova app:
- English
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Spanish
- Latin American Spanish
- Ukrainian
- Italian
- French
- German
- Korean
- Portuguese
- American Sign Language
Once you complete the first few steps, you can start your first lesson in the chosen language. Promova lessons cover a wide range of everyday topics, such as introducing yourself, ordering food at a restaurant, essential travel phrases, etc.
The lessons are short and easy to follow. They use audio recordings and unique illustrated flashcards to familiarize you with vocabulary and grammar. Plus, you get some listening and writing practice to reinforce the new knowledge.
While the platform may not seem as complex as others, it is intuitive and user-friendly. That’s why both beginners and advanced learners can fully benefit from Promova courses.
What are Promova’s Key Features?
Let’s now explore Promova’s features in more detail:
Bite-Sized Lessons
Promova’s lessons focus on real-life vocabulary. Moreover, they provide cultural context and interesting facts useful for all levels, from beginner to advanced. The lessons are short and straightforward, making learning easy and flexible no matter your schedule.
They are also dynamic and interactive, incorporating quizzes and games to reinforce new concepts. And, if you’re looking to improve your English skills, you can choose from targeted English courses, such as:
- General English
- Business English
- Travel English
- Small Talk
- English with TV Series
- Slang 101
The platform includes progress tracking tools to help you monitor your achievements and identify areas for improvement. These tools are great for keeping you motivated.
AI-Powered Tools
One of Promova’s most interesting features is its AI-powered tools, which make practicing new vocabulary and speaking more dynamic and instant.
For example, the Practice with AI tool allows you to reinforce all the vocabulary learned during lessons. The AI Role-Play feature allows you to practice with a chatbot that simulates real-world conversations in a risk-free environment.
1-on-1 Lessons with Tutors
To book an online English lesson with a tutor, you need to sign up or log in to the Promova platform with your account. Then, go to the “Tutors” section, where you can browse all available tutors and check their qualifications and ratings.
Once you find the right tutor, they can select the time that works best for you and book your session. After confirming your details and completing the payment, you may simply join the lesson at the scheduled time using the provided link and start learning with the private tutor.
These sessions allow learners to practice grammar, pronunciation, and conversation skills. Tutors provide the personalized attention learners need to progress faster toward English fluency.
Guided Group Lessons
Promova also offers group lessons for learners who want a more accessible or collaborative way to take online English classes led by professional tutors.
Another positive aspect of Promova’s group lessons is that they are limited to a maximum of 6 learners. This makes the education experience feel intimate and engaging, helping learners build confidence in speaking English.
English Conversation Club
Promova’s Conversation Club offers a safe space for learners to practice speaking skills with other fellows worldwide. These group sessions create a welcoming environment where they can engage in real-life conversations in English and improve their fluency.
These clubs are moderated by tutors to keep discussions flowing naturally. They provide an enjoyable and productive way to practice language skills outside formal lessons. And the best perk of all? It’s completely free!
Corporate English Program
Many students today are looking for language learning apps to improve their English skills for career growth, making this feature of Promova especially valuable.
Promova’s Corporate English program provides business language lessons as well as specialized English courses that employers can offer to their teams. It facilitates an effective way to strengthen workplace communication and improve overall efficiency.
Accessible Features
Another commendable perk of using Promova’s platform is its commitment to accessibility, ensuring an inclusive learning experience for everyone.
They have a Dyslexia Mode 2.0 feature that enhances readability for neurodiverse learners with softer colors, low-contrast text, and larger fonts, making studying more comfortable.
The app also has the integrated option to turn on the White Noise mode, which provides a calming background sound to minimize distractions and improve focus while completing the lessons.
Additional Resources
In addition to the lessons within the app and the online sessions with tutors, Promova provides some extra resources to support learners.
Promova’s blog includes articles on language learning tips, grammar explanations, and cultural insights to enhance the learning experience. Learners also have access to eBooks, videos, and other valuable content, giving them an extra edge in their studies.
Supportive Global Community
Promova fosters camaraderie among its learners from all over the world. It encourages them to connect not only with their tutors but also with fellow students and native speakers of the language they are trying to master.
Features like the forementioned group lessons and the speaking clubs provide opportunities for friendly conversations, cultural exchanges, and real-life language practice, making the learning experience more interactive and engaging.
How much does Promova cost?
Well, you can download and try Promova’s app for free, and some of the online language courses and English Conversation Clubs are also free. This makes it an affordable starting point for beginners exploring the platform.
For those who want to advance their skills faster, upgrading to Promova Premium unlocks enhanced features for a more immersive learning experience. Promova offers 1-, 3-, and 6-month subscriptions from $19.99 to $49.99.
Additionally, learners can book the forementioned group or private online English lessons with a tutor at affordable rates, with even lower prices available for bulk lesson purchases.
Conclusion: Is Promova a Good Option for Learning Languages?
Promova’s personalized approach sets it apart from other language learning apps. It tailors lessons to each learner’s level and goals while incorporating cultural insights to provide meaningful context.
It offers an effective way to practice grammar and vocabulary while fostering a safe and supportive learning environment where the ultimate goal is clear and confident communication.
Promova’s colorful, user-friendly design and engaging content keep learners motivated—not just to improve language skills but to explore the culture and history, creating an immersive experience.
Are there certain aspects of the app that could be optimized? Sure, there is always room for improvement, but overall, Promova provides all the essential features a learner could need—plus more currently in development—making it a highly recommended choice for language enthusiasts of all levels.
