This invention concerns interactive language learning methods and systems. These interactive systems and methods include an interactive unit, for example, a toy that includes a processor running a language learning application, an output device, e.g., a speaker, to communicate with the learner, a learner input device, e.g., microphone to receive input from the learner, a server running learning software, and, in preferred embodiments, a mobile device configured to control the toy settings. In operation, a user (e.g., the learner's parent) selects the native language used to the unit/toy and initially interacts with the learner (e.g., a child) in the same language. After assessing the learner's native language knowledge, the unit/toy begins interacting with the learner in a second (i.e., non-native or foreign) language selected by the user. The system then exposes the learner to sounds, then syllables and words before gradually progressing to phrases and sentences, followed by stories, assessments, and tasks. In this way the invention will better assist learners, especially children, in learning new languages.
PROGRAMMABLE LANGUAGE TEACHING SYSTEM AND METHOD