Is Duolingo Good for Learning a New Language?

Image from duolingo.com

In recent years, the popularity of language learning applications has skyrocketed, with Duolingo being one of the most popular options. Duolingo is a free language-learning platform that offers courses in over 40 languages, including popular languages like Spanish, French, and German, as well as lesser-known languages like Irish, Swahili, and Navajo.

But the question is, how efficient is Duolingo at teaching a new language? Can you really learn a language just by using this app? Let’s dive into some of the pros and cons of using Duolingo for language learning.

Pros:

1. Gamification: Duolingo uses gamification techniques to make learning a new language fun and engaging. The app is designed like a game, with colorful graphics, animations, and sound effects. This approach can make the learning process feel less like a chore and more like a hobby. It pretty much turns lessons into video game levels, making you want to complete “just one more”.
2. Bite-sized lessons: Duolingo offers short lessons that are easy to fit into a busy schedule. Each lesson only takes a few minutes to complete, making it possible to practice your language skills whenever you have a spare moment. I often find myself using the app while on the bus or train, which I find quite nice!