I think software language is complementary and first you need to learn language with a teacher because software can not answer all questions. There is no real communication between you and the computer. In the other hand the software is good to test you and learn more vocabulary.

According to Xavier, I think that software language is a complementary to learn a new language. Language learning software is a good way before investing more money with a teacher.

I think that language software could be very useful, but I have yet to find the software package that can even compete with just a language book. Too often the software seems designed with various exercises that you can run (and undoubtedly do help), but they do not walk you through the learning experience as a well written book or instructor (using a lesson plan) would. For that reason, I would have to say that the software is probably a good introduction or companion in language studies, but cannot be used standalone.

I agree, learning a language with language software is not ideal, however it works when just starting out to get a feel for the language and structure or to expand your vocabulary. the best method would be immersion, when you are forced to interact in that language. Second best thing is to take a class and back it up with software for reenforcement.

I believe Language Learning software can be an enormous help to the casual learner. For basic conversational needs, travel and business needs, software can give you a great head start. If you want to master foreign language fundamentals, however - such as grammar and the written language, you'd have to start from scratch...with a good teacher, and a good text book!