Abstract: An online foreign language training system is disclosed for providing a rapid introduction to a foreign language. Language instruction may be provided from a matrix of target languages and user languages, such that a single site may serve as a teaching system for teaching many different foreign languages and thus provide individuals with the ability to learn many different languages using the same user interface. Language curriculum may be customized based on user selections and user demographics to improve the relevance of the instruction to a user in terms of its length, thematic functions, and types of graphical images and sounds presented to the user. Language instruction is presented in a spiraling format in which different thematic themes are presented at each level and the complexity increases at increasing levels of instruction. The online language training system also uses icons to contextually introduce key terms for “controlling” communication, or conversation management.