there are a few aspects to language learning: 1 - repetition 2 - negative feedback loop ( correcting mistakes ) 3 - instruction ( rules ) Rosetta Stone completely deletes #3 and says it is better that way, but actually it was just easier for them to implement that way. and although the first two are more important and you really CAN do without #3 ... it's just a lot less painful and a much smoother process when rules are explained and you don't have to guess them ... the negative feedback loop is probably the most critical aspect of learning though. both human and machine learning. all computer based language learning systems seem to do well with #1 and #2 - it is the instruction / rules presentation where some are better than others. by contrast traditional classroom language learning is all about rules and sorely lacks what actually matters - trial and error. but you shouldn't have to choose between the two. it's not either classroom or Rosetta Stone - you can have both. YoYo Chinese is EXPLICITLY structured as classroom style video lessons followed by Rosetta Stone flashcard style training ... YoYo Chinese basically has 3 parts to every lesson: Video presentation, Flashcard Practice and Quiz. Babbel blends everything together with rules, practice and quiz all happening in parallel. both are good. Traditional classroom learning and Rosetta Stone both suck Pimsleur is OK if you are only able to use audio ( like when driving or jogging ) and can't use a computer based learning system.