Duolingo's Redesign Aims to Make Language Learning Easier
Duolingo is testing a new home screen design for its app in a bid to more easily guide users step-by-step along a language learning path.
Little is changing at the heart of Duolingo: Lesson content is the same, but it's grouped into smaller units with practice built in and jumbled up so users learn a mix of concepts instead of focusing on one theme at a time.
"The ordering of lessons in the path is grounded in spaced repetition, a strategy firmly supported by learning science research," according to Duolingo. Usually performed with flashcards (or, in this case, digital study notes), the technique is well-suited for retaining vocabulary in a second language. "Basically, it's more effective to space out practice for a particular concept than to cram," the company said, highlighting its similarity to the "hover" or "waterfall" methods.
Regular students of the app will notice small alterations like short stories baked into the path (rather than relegated to a separate tab), tips aggregated into unit "guidebooks" for better accessibility, and goals accessible from the Challenges tab.
Those in it for notoriety will appreciate the fact that now when you complete a set of Legendary challenges, the status applies to an entire unit, not just a single skill. Duolingo is also expanding its cast of characters to cheer you along your learning journey.
"The new path looks a bit longer, but it's all the same content, just organized in a different way," Duolingo said. "We're confident that this new method will help you learn more effectively, and we're excited for you to try it." All existing progress and credit has been preserved, so you won't have to start from scratch.
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