Livemocha is a commercial online language learning community, providing instructional materials in 38 languages and a platform for speakers to interact with and help each other learn new languages. According to the site, it has approximately 12 million registered members from 196 countries around the globe (although this claim includes members who have signed up for 1 day and never returned). Over 400,000 users visit the site daily.
The company was founded in 2007 by Shirish Nadkarni and Krishan Seshadrinathan. Nadkarni came up with the idea for a web-based approach to language learning while on a trip to Spain with his children—though they had studied Spanish in high school they were unable to engage in conversation with native speakers, but would log on to Facebook after returning to the hotel room. This led to the concept of utilizing the power of social networking sites for language learning, with an emphasis on active participation and exchange in order to hone practical skills and conversational fluency. The name “Livemocha” was invented by the founders during a brainstorming session at a local café, and is meant to evoke the relaxed atmosphere of a coffee shop. On June 8, 2010, Michael Schutzler was announced as the new CEO. Their headquarters is in Seattle, Washington.
The site has received significant attention from trade publications and national and international newspapers, including the New York Times and the Financial Times. Time Magazine named Livemocha one of its 50 Best Websites in 2010.
Read more about Livemocha: Basic Courses, Active Courses, Format Change, Peer Feedback, Member Reviews, Language Learning and Social Networks, Partnership in Brazil, Public Libraries, Finance