Italki.com: The world at your fingertips
The creators of the Web site www.italki.com have added a new dimension to the use of the Internet to defy borders and link people from all over the world.
Primarily intended as a forum for language exchange, this Facebook-esque networking tool allows users to meet others based upon their native language and the languages they are attempting to learn or practice.
Registration to the site is free and relatively simple. Members may use their profile space to display as much or as little personal information as they choose.
After a few keystrokes and clicks of the mouse, it's possible to message, e-mail, or chat with (using Italki's own chat service) people of any nationality. While many users simply want to practice speaking a foreign language, others are looking for information about foreign countries, cultural discussion or just some diverse friends.
It should be noted, though, that italki.com might initially pose challenges for those who lack the capacity for multi-tasking. New users can expect to be inundated with instant messages and friend requests shortly after creating an account.
However, this should not deter anyone who is interested in signing up. The overwhelming feeling is replaced with the fun of forging new, international connections.
Zach · September 1, 2008 2:32 PM
Do you know how italki rates compared to other language sites on the web? I have been looking into a couple others and wanted to know what this site offers that may be different. So far, I think babbel and edufire might be the 2 I find myself using most for my Japanese studies. What is the cost of italki?
Toffler · September 1, 2008 9:59 PM
@Lexie - Thanks for writing about italki. I'm glad you're enjoying using it. If you get too many chat requests, you can set your chat preferences to "Friends Only" or "Offline." Even if you set your status to "Offline," you can still ask others to chat with you. If you have any questions or other feedback on using italki, feel free to contact me; I'm manager of marketing at italki.
@Zach, italki is the second largest language site on the web based on traffic and number of users. italki offers a diverse array of materials and methods for learning languages to suit each individual's unique learning style. italki is completely free to use, unlike edufire which encourages you to pay for tutoring.