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THE ROLE OF DUOLINGO APP IN LEARNING LANGUAGES: AN
ANALYSIS OF EFFECTIVENESS AND USER ENGAGEMENT
Odiljonova Mahliyo Obidjon qizi
Uzbekistan State World Language University
English Philology and Language Learning
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15038817
ABSTRACT
In this paper, the effectiveness of the Duolingo app is explored in learning
different languages. With the increasing number of language learning apps that
are popular tools for self-directed study, it is necessary to pick the most
beneficial application. This study offers a more motivational program with
everyday notifications and gamification elements, such as rewards, and progress
tracking. Additionally, the study highlights the popularity among diverse age
groups with the app’s accessibility and user-friendly interface. However,
limitations were identified, particularly regarding the lack of conversational
practice and the absence of some languages in use, such as the Uzbek language.
The thesis concludes by discussing other implications and recommendations
according to both sides.
Keywords:
Introduction
Globalization and technological advancements foster the improvement of
the landscape of language learning. Mobile applications have emerged in this
transformation, providing flexible, engaging, accessible ways that allow users to
learn at their own pace and on their schedule. Also, social interaction
opportunities and diverse learning formats make language learning enjoyable
and engaging. If so, which part of the Duolingo program gives more motivation
and engagement to learners? During the practice, firstly, Duolingo’s colorful
design, and enjoyable learning environment appeal to users. Unless people did
not have a sense of progress, they would not have preferred this app over other
apps. Learners can visibly see their progress as they complete lessons, unlike
new lessons, and expand their vocabulary. In short, the combination of
gamification, immediate feedback, personalized learning, and a visually
appealing interface makes Duolingo highly motivating for many language
learners.
Literature review
Technology in language learning
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The more advanced and affordable mobile technologies have become in
function, the more demand for learning various types of languages has grown in
this way in our digital technological era. Being so convenient for learning mobile
apps aim to contribute to broadening the educational skills of learning targeting
users of all ages, mainly, adults. One of the such handy apps is
Duolingo which is
a free widely recognized platform that teaches translation coherently, matching
clearly, listening repeatedly, and speaking with grammar rules according to
units. As of August 15
th,
2016, Duolingo has provided wide-ranging languages in
its learning materials including: Romanian, Dutch, Russian, Turkish, Spanish,
Greek, Arabic, Chinese, Hungarian, Japanese, Ukrainian, English, Indonesian,
Thai, and so forth. (Chen, X. 2016)
How does Duolingo work?
In this program, beginners face comprehensive writing tasks and more
advanced ones have speaking practice. The app includes a built-in dictionary
feature, and games given nearly every aspect of the platform to keep learners
engaged while they acquire new vocabulary. For instance, users earn
“experience points” (XP) as they complete various learning tasks, like finishing a
set lesson. Also, users receive one point for each correct response and lose a
point for each mistake, and one unit is considered successful once they
accumulate 10 points. Additionally, Duolingo gives feedback to participants and
corrects their answers when errors occur during practice, offering helpful tips to
improve their language skills. It easily keeps participants continuing by
motivating them with congrats.
One of the crucial elements is that Duolingo differs from traditional
language programs with its use of gamification. Gamification means making
learning fun. Duolingo encourages users to capture materials consistently. The
app rewards users for completing lessons, maintaining streaks, and achieving
personal milestones. Another good opportunity is that you know your practice
ranks among worldwide people. This game-like structure not only enhances
motivation but also fosters a sense of accomplishment.
Benefits of Duolingo
Duolingo is the most common way to learn online and it has more than
200million users worldwide. As well as it was created by Luis Won Ahn and
Severin Hacker in November 2011. This app offers over 30 online courses for
learners who know the English language and the most popular ones include
Latin American, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Brazilian Portuguese.
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There are dozens of courses for non-English speaking students. Furthermore,
users have the opportunity to suggest other new language courses if they want
Duolingo to develop. (Indah Sri Redjeki, R. Muhajir)
Waking of the Covid-19 era has brought transformative changes in the
landscape of education, urging educators to try new innovative approaches. In
this challenging situation, technology has emerged as a powerful ally and one
software has been an attractive solution with its activities and interactive
exercises to learn languages. (Jalil Fathi, Mohammad Ahmadne jad, Samireh
Nosrati)
Drawbacks of the app
On the authority of Santri Muslima Abila and Ivan Achmad Nurcholis,
the software creates a dynamic learning environment consisting of positive and
negative sides. They mentioned some disadvantages. Duolingo’s dependence on
repetition makes people who utilize it boring although a multitude of repetitive
tasks can be useful for memorizing. Sentences and phrases are displayed out of
context in this mobile app. As a result, comprehending a certain word is a
confusing problem for students when they attempt to use certain phrases
outside of Duolingo.
According to statistics from 2024, 70% of the users agreed on
engagement, and 40% of them were satisfied with the frequency of use.
However, the analysis showed a significant drop in motivation that 80% of
people confirmed, cultural learning in lessons was only 35% satisfactory that the
most users feel Duolingo lacks cultural depth. (Dr. Zia -ur Rehman)
Conclusion
In summary, the Duolingo app has more benefits than drawbacks as a
successful learning tool.
This app breaks down traditional barriers like wasting
time, and not accessing everywhere – available on various devices. There is a
daily obligation for learners to inspire with streaks and this well-organized
mobile app pays attention to each section of gaining knowledge. Moreover, it
receives new participants takes into account their levels and it gives mood with
colorful emoji. Another strong point is that app users acquire knowledge of
numerous languages at the same time. Duolingo not only makes lessons more
entertaining but also develops regular practice, through its gamified approach.
Overall, Duolingo represents more valuable advancement among other language
learning applications, fostering a love for languages.
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References:
1.
Abila, S. M., & Nurcholis, I. A. (2025). EVALUATING DUOLINGO'S
APPROACH TO LANGUAGE LEARNING: BENEFITS AND DRAWBACK. Jurnal
Ilmiah Kajian Multidisipliner, 9(1).
2.
Chen, X. (2016). Evaluating language-learning mobile apps for second-
language learners. Journal of Educational Technology Development and
Exchange (JETDE), 9(2), 3.
3.
Fathi, J., Ahmadinejad, M., & Nosrati, S. (2024). Investigating the impact of
Duolingo on second language learning achievement and self-regulated learning
among French as a foreign language learners. Computer-Assisted Language
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4.
Redjeki, I. S., & Muhajir, R. (2020). Duolingo for grammar learning.
Prosiding Lppm Uika Bogor.
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Rehman, Z. U., & Iqbal, A. (2024). Investigating the Challenges of Using
Duolingo for Language Learning: A Simplified Review. Contemporary Journal of
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