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Evaluation of Duolingo to Promote Language Acquisition #1308

Smartphone use in the English language classroom has been increasing in popularity in recent years, and yet research into the effectiveness and experience of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) in a Japanese University context is still inadequate. Due to the scarcity of research in this area, the efficacy of the language-learning platform Duolingo, which is currently the leading language-learning mobile application, was evaluated. Duolingo is a free, comprehensive, four-skill, language-learning website and application which offers courses in 38 languages and is based on a gamification model.

This presentation will share the results of a small-scale independent study designed to research the effectiveness and the experience of using the mobile-learning application ‘Duolingo’ as a learning aid in a Japanese University context. The impact of the regular use of this application on student language acquisition, through pre- and post-tests done using Duolingo’s own English Test system was examined, and student attitudes were recorded through surveys. The quantitative data regarding language gains was inconclusive, but the qualitative data showed that the participants were generally amenable and motivated by studying in this manner.