What, specifically, makes Duolingo such a standout product?
Being free, and easily accessible by anyone with an internet connection, has obviously played a huge part in Duolingo’s worldwide domination of the language learning market...
... but what else makes up Duolingo’s secret recipe of success? |
Gamified Experience
- More interactive, cheerful, lighthearted and fun than most of its competitors, prioritizing fun over difficulty.
- Incorporates videogame-like mechanics like levels, badges, experience (XP), achievements, and streaks.
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And these features aren't just gimmicks! Research has shown that winning streaks boost learner attention and motivation; the larger the streak, the more significant the effect (Huynh & Iida, 2017).
Applies Best Practices from Education
Tackled Two Main Hurdles to Language Learning
1. Learners want to make good progress as quickly as possible.
Solution: Users can choose to learn in less time, or increase difficulty of courses.
2. Learners must be committed to making that progress.
Solutions:
Solution: Users can choose to learn in less time, or increase difficulty of courses.
2. Learners must be committed to making that progress.
Solutions:
- Make users addicted to learning through game elements and principles (as above).
- Users can increase "stay-tuned quota", ensuring long time commitments, which in turn help them progress.
- Allow learners to fit in a brief language lesson anytime, anywhere, with no complicated login systems.
85% percent of Duolingo users use the mobile app.
Vibrant Community
- Learners can connect with friends
- Every aspect of a lesson has a separate community discussion forum to ask questions - and flag issues
- Community volunteers create the lessons (Duolingo Incubator)