Rosetta Stone: Thai Explorer

Rating:
Summary: Not bad
Review: A good introduction to the language and kind of fun to use - a big plus when dealing with these language learning programs. I am impressed with the way the lessons are presented and like the previous reviewer I am thinking about getting the full ($195) versions although there is a LOT to master in the first 2 lessons - you will not be bored. Colloquial Thai (book and tape set) is also very good place to begin.

Rating:
Summary: this one's Goofy..........
Review: Hi, I bought this in Thailand actually and after checking it out I'd have to recommend DON'T buy this. it's goofy, it goes from single syllable words and pictures of horses and kids to complicated sentences with the same pictures of the horses and kids, and actually it was getting very frustrating trying to make some connection out of any of it. there must be something better out there, I just haven't seen it ( and I 've wasted a lot of money on these Thai language tapes) Also sound quality was very iffy and so, doesn't do the Thai language any favors obviously.

Rating:
Summary: nice interface but no translations or grammar
Review: I bought the Thai Explorer edition and was glad I did NOT purchase the full version. This system of learning begins with simple pictures along with Thai vocabulary, which is helpful (though not very comprehensive). The major flaw with the program is there are no English translations that accompany the Thai; a typical exercise consists of an image along with the Thai script and native speaker saying the phrase in Thai. The problem is it is not know with any precision what is being uttered, since the pictures--except for the most basic ones--may be interpreted in more than one way. Sure the student can imitate the phrases, but without already knowing the Thai script the program is of little value to the serious student.

Rating:
Summary: excellent tool to learn the thai language
Review: I've purchased the explorer version and quickly moved on to the professional level I (there is no version II yet). I have now completed all 96 lessons and must say that I found this the easiest language I ever learned, thanks to this program. As other reviewers mentioned the only downside is the missing english translation but I simply purchased a thai dictionary and used it in combination with Rosetta Stone. I am pretty fluent and trusting the feedback of my thai friends during my last visit in Bangkok last week, I have mastered a pretty good level of the language, incl. reading and writing.

Rating:
Summary: Without a doubt, this is the worest . . .
Review: Perhaps the other languages in The Rosetta Stone series are good, but their Thai Explorer language program is really bad. If you want to speak Thai like Tarzan, i.e. "me Tarzan, you Jane," then this program might be suitable for you. If you want to learn how to speak simple and useful conversational Thai phrases, keep on looking. This is about as useless a language program that I've ever encountered.

Rating:
Summary: Rosetta Stone: Thai Explorer Ages 6 and Up
Review: Sawasdii khrap I purchased this software hoping for a "total communication" approach to learning Thai. I was disappointed. My impression is that you are actually buying a very limited demo of their more expensive products. The interface is well designed and the training approach is excellent. I look forward to using both the Level I and Level II programs, both of which list for $195.00 each... I have purchased numerous Thai language programs and I would not recommend this Explorer package to anyone who wants to become a serious student of the Thai language. If you wish to learn a few Thai phrases quickly for an upcoming trip, then I would recommend "Thai in 7 Days" by Somsong Buasai and David Smyth or the Berlitz "Thai for Travelers" phrase book and cassette tape. Both selections are available here at Amazon. My experience is that hearing a native born speaker speak their native language is a much more effective way to learn accurate pronunciation. Good luck with your Thai language studies. chook dii