Evaluating Duolingo: A Deep Dive into Language Learning


Intro
In todayâs interconnected world, the quest for learning new languages has surged, spurred on by globalization and the digital age. Duolingo stands as a strong player in this sector, offering users a fun and interactive pathway to language acquisition. While many people have dabbled with this app, the questions surrounding its effectiveness and methodology remain largely unaddressed.
This evaluation takes an enlightening look at Duolingo, dissecting its teaching strategies, user experience, and inherent limitations. From burgeoning trends in language learning to the technology at play, the examination aims to ground potential users in an informed understanding.
Industry Overview
Current Trends in the Language Learning Sector
The language learning industry is currently experiencing a transformation, influenced by current educational research and technological advancements. Traditional classroom methods are taking a back seat, with platforms like Duolingo elevating gamification as a core feature. According to various reports, mobile applications are becoming first choice due to their accessibility and convenience, appealing especially to younger audiences who prioritize functionalities that are both educational and entertaining.
Key Challenges Faced by Users in the Industry
Finding effective language learning tools isnât without hurdles:
- Engagement: Many learners struggle to stay motivated over the long haul.
- Relevance: Users often seek contextual learning that is relevant to their lives.
- Retention: The challenge of maintaining vocabulary and fluency can be daunting.
Emerging Technologies Impacting the Language Learning Landscape
AI and machine learning are increasingly shaping language-learning tools. These technologies enhance personalized learning experiences, adapting to each userâs proficiency and needs. Moreover, voice recognition technology aids pronunciation, a common area of difficulty among learners.
Duolingoâs Approach to Language Learning
Overview of Duolingoâs Teaching Methodology
Duolingo employs a bite-sized learning strategy, which allows users to absorb new material in small, digestible segments. This approach caters to busy schedules, allowing learners to fit lessons into their daily routines. However, is less really more when it comes to language learning?
User Engagement Strategies
The app cleverly adopts gaming elements, integrating points, levels, and even streaks to keep users coming back for more. The social aspect cannot be overlooked; learners can compete with friends, fostering a sense of community and motivating consistent usage.
Strengths and Limitations
Strengths of Duolingo
- Accessibility: Available on multiple platforms, letting users learn on-the-go.
- Free Model: Offers extensive free content, which is appealing for budget-conscious learners.
- Gamified Learning: Makes the process of language acquisition enjoyable.
Limitations of Duolingo
- Depth of Content: While it excels in vocabulary and basics, it falls short in advanced language structure and nuances.
- Pronunciation Practice: The appâs reliance on speaking exercises may not suit every learner.
- Cultural Context: Lacks emphasis on cultural nuances, leaving learners potentially ill-equipped for real-word interactions.
"Language learning should encompass not just words, but also the culture that shapes them."
User Feedback and Outcomes
Many users have lauded Duolingo for its user-friendly interface and motivation-boosting structure. However, feedback also reveals concerns about long-term fluency and the applicability of learned skills in real-life situations. An analysis of forum discussions shows that users often crave more interactive and communicative practice opportunities.
Finale
An analysis of Duolingo reveals a mixed bag of features that highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the platform. While it offers vibrant, interactive opportunities to engage with language, it arguably lacks depth for those seeking comprehensive mastery. By approaching this platform with clear goals, prospective learners can decide whether it suits their learning journey.
As the language-learning industry continues to innovate, recommendations for users may focus on complementing tools like Duolingo with more immersive experiences for rounded language acquisition.
Foreword to Duolingo
In the ever-evolving landscape of language learning, Duolingo has carved a niche that offers both promise and plenty to consider. As more individuals seek to expand their linguistic horizons, understanding the role of such platforms becomes crucial. This section dives into the nuances of Duolingo, providing context to its significance and relevance in language acquisition.
Overview and History
Duolingo was founded in 2011 by Luis von Ahn and Severin Hacker, two tech-savvy individuals with a shared vision of making education accessible to all. The idea was simple yet potentâblend engaging technology with language learning to create an enjoyable educational experience. Initially launched as a mobile app, Duolingo quickly gained traction, catching the eye of millions worldwide.
The platform's success can be attributed to its unique approach to gamification. By turning lessons into bite-sized challenges, it allows users to learn at their own pace while maintaining motivation. A look at the broader timeline reveals that the app, born in a small university office, now boasts over 500 million downloads across various platforms, including iOS, Android, and the web.
Whatâs more, even as the app has grown in scale, its core ideology remains intact: offering free language education that entertains as much as it educates. To date, Duolingo offers a plethora of languages, accommodating those who want to learn not just widely spoken tongues such as Spanish or Mandarin, but also less common languages like Irish or Swahili.
Mission and Vision


At its core, Duolingo's mission revolves around democratizing education. The phrase "language for all" captures this ethos remarkably well. Unlike traditional methods that often come with hefty price tags, Duolingo provides a completely free platform, supported by ad revenues and optional premium services like Duolingo Plus, which removes ads and provides offline access.
The vision extends beyond mere language acquisition. It aspires to create a world where anyone, regardless of their economic background, can learn a new language. This democratization is reinforced through various featuresâlessons that adjust to user proficiency and the utilization of social features which enable users to learn collaboratively.
Duolingo exemplifies how technology can bridge educational gaps. This aspiration nurtures a community of learners who motivate each other and celebrate language milestones together, fostering a rich environment for educational growth. As the app continues to evolve, its commitment to this mission and vision remains a pivotal element in its strategy to enhance the user experience and drive engagement.
Methodology of Learning
Understanding the methodology behind a language learning platform like Duolingo is crucial. It provides insights into how effectively the app can teach users various languages. This section will illuminate the key elements, benefits, and essential considerations surrounding Duolingo's pedagogical strategies.
Duolingoâs approach to language acquisition is designed to engage learners in meaningful ways. This combination of gamification and adaptive learning creates a foundation for effective education. The beauty of learning through Duolingo lies not only in its playful design but also in its targeted strategies that cater to individual learning needs.
One might wonder why methodology matters. Well, the methodology impacts the retention of language skills. For example, if a user finds that they are consistently engaged and enjoying the process, they are more likely to return for another lesson, leading to greater proficiency over time. Thus, itâs not just about learning; it's about how that knowledge is acquired that ultimately shapes a learner's experience.
Gamification and User Engagement
Gamification is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but in the context of education, it can make all the difference. Duolingo incorporates elements like levels, points, and streaks to not just attract users but to keep them coming back. This isn't merely about accumulating scores; it creates an environment where learning feels like a fun challenge rather than a daunting task.
Key Features of Gamification in Duolingo:
- Scoring and Rewards: Users earn points for completing exercises, which encourages them to engage more.
- Daily Goals: Setting daily goals brings a sense of accountability, nudging users to practice regularly.
- Streak Maintenance: The streak feature incentivizes consistent practice, making it more likely for learners to stick with their routine.
In essence, this blend of engagement techniques transforms mundane vocabulary exercises into an engaging experience. It not only boosts motivation but also fosters a community that thrives on competition and support.
"Gamification effectively blurs the line between learning and play, creating a pathway for students to enhance their skills with minimal resistance."
Adaptive Learning Techniques
Adaptive learning is another cornerstone of Duolingo's teaching philosophy. This approach tailors the learning experience based on individual user performance. Unlike traditional textbooks that one size fits all, Duolingo pivots according to the strengths and weaknesses of its users.
Imagine a user struggling with verb conjugations; the app identifies this and offers targeted practice in that area. The beauty of adaptive learning can be summarized thus:
- Customized Content: Lessons adjust based on a user's proficiency. The app learns what works for them.
- Feedback Loops: Immediate feedback helps learners correct mistakes in real-time, solidifying their understanding.
- Pacing Control: Each learner has a different pace. The adaptive model allows users to spend the necessary time on concepts they find tricky, ensuring mastery before moving on.
In summary, Duolingo's commitment to gamification and adaptive learning creates a robust framework for language education. These strategies not only enhance user engagement but also deepen learning and retention, ultimately setting the stage for successful language acquisition.
Courses and Languages Offered
When dissecting the layers of Duolingo, one realizes how fundamental the variety of courses and languages it offers is to its appeal. Having options can significantly shape a learner's experience and outcome. To understand the platform's effectiveness, one must delve deeply into its expansive offerings. Diverse language options not only attract a wider audience but also allow for personalized learning pathsâcatering to different individual goals, whether they are for travel, work, or personal interest.
Range of Languages Available
Duolingo prides itself on being a polymer of language choices, embodying over thirty languages for users to choose from. This wide array caters to the desires of learners from all walks of life. Some of the languages, such as Spanish, French, and German, benefit from a large user base, which in turn enhances the learning process through community engagement and shared resources.
However, it's not merely about the popular languages. Consider languages like Hawaiian or Navajo, which might not have widespread populations but offer courses to preserve and promote linguistic diversity. This aspect emphasizes Duolingo's commitment not only to language learning but also to cultural awareness and preservation. The platform's inclusive design allows for vibrant users who may want to connect with their heritage or explore niche interests.
Additionally, the user interface makes it easy to switch between languages, allowing for an experimentation approach that many might find enriching. The option to learn multiple languages concurrently can be particularly beneficial for those drawn to patterns and comparative linguistics. This diversity creates an engaging experience, and learners are likely to remain committed longer simply due to the sheer enjoyment of learning what sparks their curiosity.
Specialized Courses and Skills
Within its catalog, Duolingo doesn't just stop at a broad spectrum of languages. It also cuts deeper by offering specialized courses that cater to specific skills or themes. This tailoring is an attractive feature for users who want not just a surface level understanding but a more profound grasp of the language.
For example, Duolingo has crafted courses focusing on specific contexts, such as business language or travel essentials. These "skill-based" courses equip users with the relevant vocabulary and phrases necessary for various situations. Knowing how to order food in a restaurant or discuss business in a meeting draws users in, providing practical language that is often overlooked in more traditional language studies.
Moreover, Duolingo offers courses for particularly challenging themes, like Idioms or Conversational Skills in various languages. This attention to depth allows users to feel prepared for real-life conversations, fostering a more intuitive learning curve.
"Specialization makes a platform approachable, allowing users to focus on their specific needs and goals, transforming a generic learning experience into a tailored journey."
In summary, Duolingo's offerings, both in terms of languages and specialized courses, play a crucial role in creating a holistic learning journey. The option to explore both popular and rare languages, along with the availability of strategic skill-based courses, points toward a language application built on user-centered design principles. Each user's experience can be as unique as the language they choose to learn, which can fuel motivation and make language acquisition a more engaging affair.
User Experience and Interface
User experience (UX) and interface design play a vital role in the overall effectiveness of Duolingo. In the fast-paced world we live in, the ability to navigate an app with ease cannot be overstated. A great blend of usability and attractive design can significantly enhance a user's journey in learning a new language. When users find themselves adrift in a sea of complexity or confusion, motivation can wane, leading to abandonment of the app altogether. Therefore, understanding the nuances of Duolingoâs design and interface is key to grasping how it impacts the learning process.
Design and Usability
The design of Duolingo is colorful and playful, a stark contrast to the often stern look of typical educational apps. The visual appeal isn't merely for decoration; it's a strategic choice aimed at easing users into language learning with a sense of enjoyment. Users are often greeted with illustrations and engaging layouts that guide them seamlessly from one lesson to another.


- Intuitive Navigation: Navigating through Duolingo feels almost second nature. Its layout is straightforward, which makes it less likely for users to encounter frustration as they hop from one lesson to the next.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Immediate feedback is key in any educational setting. Duolingo incorporates sound effects and visual notifications that reward users' progress, which reinforces a positive learning experience. This kind of interactive design is essential to keep learners motivated.
- Accessibility Features: Itâs encouraging to note that Duolingo also seeks to be inclusive. The app comes with various features that cater to different learning styles, including visual aids for learners who may benefit from seeing information rather than hearing it.
Despite its many strengths, some users have raised concerns about aspects of usability. The reliance on gamification can sometimes feel a bit too much, as if the platform is playing games rather than serious learning. The challenge lies in balancing educational rigor with engaging design.
Community and Social Features
Social interaction is another area where Duolingo sets itself apart from many other language-learning apps. It recognizes that learning is a partnership, not just an individual endeavor. By fostering a sense of community, Duolingo encourages users to learn together, offering a support system that can help reinforce language skills.
- Discussion Forums: Users can interact in forums where they can ask questions, share tips, or even practice speaking with one another. These forums serve as a space not only for learning but for camaraderie.
- Practice with Friends: Duolingo enables users to invite friends to join their learning journey, which nudges them toward consistent usage, backed by friendsâ involvement. Competing with or encouraging friends can be a strong motivator for many.
- Leaderboards: The competitive aspect through leaderboards can spark a bit of friendly rivalry among users. This element pushes learners to stay engaged and keep improving in their chosen languages.
"The success of a platform lies in how it engages its users; Duolingo's commitment to fostering a community is an invaluable asset for learners."
Overall, the user experience and interface of Duolingo showcase an effective melding of fun and function. While it proudly stands out in design, the platform continually works to refine its usability and social features to better serve its diverse user base. Every tap, every sound, and every conversation enhances the learning environment and contributes to a more fulfilling journey in language learning.
Effectiveness of Duolingo
The evaluation of Duolingo's effectiveness is central to understanding its role in the language-learning landscape. This assessment is particularly important because it considers how well the app meets its educational goals and user expectations. Given the wide-ranging nature of language proficiency and its real-world applications, the effectiveness of such a tool can have lasting implications for both casual learners and serious language enthusiasts.
When we discuss effectiveness, we bear in mind several essential components such as learning outcomes, user engagement, and practical application of skills. Itâs not just about how engaging the app is; rather, itâs about whether users can carry what theyâve learned into everyday conversations and real-world situations.
Outcome-Based Evaluations
Evaluating the outcomes of language acquisition through Duolingo is akin to measuring a fish's ability to climb a tree. Itâs necessary to decide not only if users are enjoying the app, but also if theyâre achieving solid language skills. Research studies often highlight the learning outcomes associated with various educational tools.
Some notable evaluations include:
- Comparison with Traditional Learning: Studies have revealed that users of Duolingo often demonstrate proficiency that is comparable, if not slightly above, those who learn through traditional classroom settings after similar exposure durations.
- Time Investment vs. Learning Efficiency: With a lean investment of as little as 15 minutes per day, users can achieve measurable advancements in their language skills, particularly in vocabulary and grammar comprehension. This brief daily commitment may yield significant results, challenging the notion that intensive study hours are the only path to proficiency.
Critically, these outcome-based evaluations underscore how incorporating Duolingo into daily routines positively influences retention and practical usage, even within conceivable confines. However, it's essential to recognize that while Duolingo enhances vocabulary and grammatical structures, deeper conversational skills still need supplementary practice.
User Testimonials and Feedback Analysis
User testimonials provide a pulse check on the real-world experiences of learners. Feedback can be varied, reflecting both successes and challenges users face with the platform.
Here are a few key takeaways from user experiences:
- Accessibility and Convenience: Many users praise Duolingo for its ease of use and accessibility. Individuals often mention they can practice on-the-go, fitting lessons into their busy schedules.
- Variety of Learning Styles: Feedback often indicates that the app's multilayered gamification caters to various learning styles, which assists users in staying motivated and engaged. For instance, visuals, auditory elements, and repetition resonate well with different learners.
But it is not all rainbows and sunshine. Certain criticisms frequently appear in user testimonials:
- Limited Conversational Practice: A common refrain points to the app's lack of speaking exercises that mirror real-world conversations, which can hinder fluency.
- Repetitive Exercises: While repetition is a method of reinforcement, some users feel that this aspect can become monotonous and diminish motivation over time.
In summary, analyzing the effectiveness of Duolingo paves the way for deeper insights on how and why the platform resonates with its audience. Such evaluations not only help potential users make informed choices but also aid developers in enhancing the platform to better serve its users. As we move forward, it will be essential to balance the positives with the areas needing improvement.
Comparative Analysis with Other Language Learning Tools
When evaluating Duolingo, it's essential to look beyond just its features. Analyzing it in relation to other language learning tools provides a clearer perspective on its strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness. This comparative analysis sheds light on the competitive landscape of language education, allowing potential users to discern what Duolingo offers compared to alternatives. It highlights how various tools approach language acquisition, catering to diverse learning styles and preferences.
Strengths and Weaknesses Compared to Rivals
Duolingo stands out in several areas yet also faces criticism. Hereâs an overview:
Strengths:
- Accessibility: Duolingo's free tier makes it available to anyone with an internet connection, breaking down barriers to learning a new language.
- Engagement: The use of gamification elements, including streaks and badges, encourages consistent practice. Users often find themselves returning just to maintain their streaks.
- Variety of Languages: Duolingo offers a broad spectrum of languages, including less commonly taught ones like Hawaiian or Irish, which is a rarity among its competitors.
Weaknesses:
- Depth of Content: While Duolingo provides an engaging way to learn basics, critics argue it falls short in teaching advanced grammar and conversation skills.
- Lack of Cultural Context: The app often neglects important cultural nuances that are crucial for truly mastering a language; this is something other platforms, such as Babbel, tend to emphasize more.
- Skepticism about Proficiency Outcomes: Some users question whether using Duolingo alone can lead to fluency, particularly when compared to platforms like Rosetta Stone that employ immersive techniques.
These elements contribute to the ongoing discussions around Duolingo's place in the language learning ecosystem and are worth considering for anyone evaluating its use.
Market Positioning and User Demographics
Duolingo occupies a unique spot in the language learning market. Its approach appeals to a broad range of demographics, from school students to professionals looking to enhance their language skills. Here are some noteworthy aspects of its user base:
- Diverse Age Range: The app draws in users of various ages. From children to older adults, many find it accessible and engaging.
- Global Reach: Duolingo caters to a worldwide audience, often gaining traction in regions where other platforms might not have a strong presence. For instance, in parts of Latin America, Duolingo's popularity surges due to both its free access and language offerings relevant to the local population.
- Tech-Savvy Learners: Users who are comfortable with technology are likely to favor Duolingo over traditional methods. The app's interactive components attract individuals looking for a modern approach to language learning.


In essence, Duolingo's market positioning reflects a blend of affordability, accessibility, and engagement, making it a favorite among numerous language learners. However, this comes with the caveat that different learners have varying needs, which other tools may meet more effectively.
"Understanding the competitive landscape helps potential users make informed decisions about the tools that best suit their learning objectives."
Limitations and Criticisms
When discussing Duolingo, itâs crucial to confront the limitations and criticisms head-on. Beauty lies not only in praise but also in a balanced assessment that scrutinizes potential drawbacks. While Duolingo offers numerous benefits, taking a closer look at its limitations sheds light on the areas for improvement and helps users align their expectations realistically. Understanding these points is imperative for both current users and prospective learners who may be considering the platform for their language acquisition journey.
Common Challenges Faced by Users
Navigating through Duolingo can be a double-edged sword for many users. The platform's focus on gamification, while engaging, sometimes results in gaps in actual language application. Here are some common challenges:
- Overemphasis on Vocabulary: Users often find themselves memorizing words and phrases without gaining a deep understanding of context. The lack of conversational practice can lead to issues in real-world application.
- Limited Speaking Practice: Many users express frustration over the minimal emphasis on spoken language. Engaging in dialogue is critical for fluency, but the appâs exercises might neglect this crucial component.
- Motivation Wanes Over Time: The excitement that comes with initial gamified elements can fade. As content becomes repetitive or daunting levels appear, user motivation may plummet.
- Diverse Learning Styles: Not every learner thrives in a gamified environment. Some may prefer structured lessons or immersive experiences that Duolingo does not fully provide.
These challenges highlight that while Duolingo serves as an effective supplementary tool for language learners, relying exclusively on it may not yield the desired outcomes for everyone.
Skepticism Regarding Language Proficiency Claims
A significant point of contention surrounding Duolingo is the skepticism about the language proficiency claims it posits. Many users question the veracity of the proficiency levels they achieve through the platform. This skepticism can be attributed to various factors:
- Misalignment with Standardized Tests: Duolingoâs level assessments often do not correlate with recognized measures like the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Consequently, what Duolingo claims as a certain level of proficiency may not align with the expectations set by academic or professional institutions.
- Contextual Usage Deficiencies: Learning a language through the app may not prepare users for real-life interactions where context, culture, and non-verbal cues play significant roles. Users may find themselves at a loss in practical situations despite high scores in Duolingo.
- Success Stories vs. Average Users: Duolingo frequently highlights exceptional success stories, which can mislead potential users about widespread efficacy. Itâs essential to consider the average user experience versus standout cases.
"While Duolingo can facilitate basic vocabulary acquisition, true fluency requires immersive experiences that go beyond the screen."
- Pressure of Continuous Learning: The competitive nature embedded within the app may create performance anxiety rather than a healthy learning environment, thereby affecting the learning curve negatively.
At the end of the day, recognizing the criticisms of Duolingo can serve as a guide for enhancing users' learning experiences. When one is equipped with a full understanding of both the capabilities and constraints of the resource, they can more effectively leverage it as part of a comprehensive language-learning roadmap.
Future Prospects of Duolingo
The future of Duolingo is a topic of considerable intrigue because it encapsulates not just the probable trajectory of this tool, but also reflects wider trends in language learning. As the global demand for multilingual individuals rises, Duolingo must adapt and innovate to retain its relevance. This section dives into potential advancements in technology and new markets, offering insights into how Duolingo can face challenges and seize opportunities that lie ahead.
Technological Innovations on the Horizon
Technological advancements represent a golden opportunity for Duolingo. With innovation seeping into every corner of life, the educational sector isnât an exception. Duolingo can harness cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance its learning experience further. Imagine a platform that offers personalized learning paths that adapt in real-time as users progress.
Some key innovations to consider might include:
- Voice recognition technology: This can help learners improve their pronunciation while engaging in conversational practice without the need for a human interlocutor.
- Augmented reality features: Users could immerse themselves in virtual environments to practice their language skills in context, such as shopping in a virtual market in Paris or ordering food in a café in Madrid.
- Integrated social learning environments: Enhancing community interactions could enrich learner experiences, perhaps through virtual study groups or live practice sessions with peers.
"The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." â Malcolm X
Not only would these innovations keep Duolingo appealing to its existing user base, but they could also attract new learners who seek a more interactive and comprehensive approach to language acquisition.
Potential New Markets and Language Offerings
Expanding into new markets and offering additional languages can be critical for Duolingoâs growth. While the app has made strides by including less commonly taught languages, the opportunities do not stop there. With globalization and increasing interconnectedness, demand for various languages continues to grow.
Some potential areas for expansion include:
- Emerging markets: Countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America present critical opportunities, where learning additional languages can significantly enhance employability and cultural exchange.
- Dialect-specific courses: Instead of just offering standard courses, introducing regional dialects can make language learning more relatable. For instance, offering both Castilian and Latin American Spanish could appeal to distinct user demographics.
- Niche language options: Languages like Finnish or Maori are often overlooked in mainstream learning apps. By providing courses in these languages, Duolingo can attract culturally curious learners seeking a unique linguistic challenge.
Ending
The significance of the conclusion in this article cannot be overstated. It serves as a pivotal moment where the insights gleaned from various sections culminate into a cohesive understanding of Duolingo's effectiveness as a language-learning platform. This summative part not only reiterates the major findings but also provides an opportunity to reflect on the overall narrative journey we have undertaken.
From the methodology employed to the user experience and the limitations identified, every element plays a crucial role in shaping a potential userâs decision. A thorough conclusion allows an informed perspective on whether Duolingo stands as a suitable language-learning option based on personalized needs and preferences.
Recap of Key Findings
Throughout the analysis, several key findings emerged:
- User Engagement: Duolingo's gamification approach actively captures user interest, making the task of language learning feel less onerous.
- Adaptive Learning: The platform's use of adaptive learning techniques allows for a tailored experience, catering to individual user progress and skill level.
- Diverse Course Offerings: An extensive range of languages and specialized courses can meet diverse learner requirements.
- Limitations: Issues such as frustrations related to pronunciation practice and the potential over-reliance on app-based learning without real-world practice were noted as common user challenges.
These points create an insightful picture of Duolingo's strengths and weaknesses, shaping how individuals can approach their language-learning journey.
Final Thoughts on Using Duolingo
When considering Duolingo for language acquisition, potential users should weigh the platformâs vibrant engagement strategies against its limitations. The app's design caters well to those looking for a structured yet enjoyable learning experience. However, attention should be given to the necessity of supplementary learning tools and real-world practice to achieve fluency.
"Learning a language takes time and effort; Duolingo can be a valuable part of that journey, but is not a magic wand."
The process of learning a new language is not just about vocabulary and grammar; it's about making connections, understanding cultures, and building confidence in communicating. By keeping these factors in mind, prospective users can better assess how Duolingo fits into their personal learning scenarios.