Duolingo is a free online platformcreated in the United States and launched on the market for the first time in November 2011 for learning different languages.
The same It was developed under the Python language by the Guatemalan Luis Von Anh, together with the student Severi Hacker and another group of participants.
What is it for
This platform It is used to learn and practice different languages, in a simple and entertaining way, through different types of exercises. Likewise, it offers open forums so that users can acquire or reinforce the knowledge they have already learned, through debates or conversations with other Duolingo members.
How does it work
To use Duolingo it is necessary to have a profile within the platform, which can be created in a few minutes from the mobile app or on the website. Likewise, it allows you to log in using a Google or Facebook account. Once inside, aspects such as the language you want to learn and the amount of time you want to dedicate must be configured.
How to register
To register for Duolingo you can log in or use the mobile app by clicking on the button “Begin”. Then it is necessary select the language you want to learn and continue with the registration process, establishing a daily learning goal and selecting the account (Google or Facebook) with which you want to log in.
Note– Account linking can be skipped if desired. However, this is not recommended as you risk losing progress or not receiving alerts from Duolingo.
How to learn a language
Learning a new language on Duolingo is very simple, you just have to enter the platform with the desired profile and select the language you want to practice. It should be noted that, if you have an open course, you must click on the flag shown at the top and touch “Add course”.
Note: To switch between courses, simply click on the flag and select the course you want to learn.
Plans or subscriptions
Although Duolingo is a free learning platform that can be accessed from different parts of the world, it integrates a paid version for those who wish to acquire it. The latter offers, in addition to learning content, other improved functions, such as:
- Unlimited lives.
- Practice mistakes.
- Ad free.
- Skip units unlimitedly.
- Proof of mastery.
It is worth clarifying that, Duolingo Plus is divided into two types of plans: individual and family. The first costs $6.99/month and is valid for a single user. The second, for its part, costs $9.99/month and applies to a maximum of 6 members of the platform. It is also worth noting that it is possible to use the Pro version for free for 14 days.
Note: After completing the 14 days the Duolingo Plus amount will be automatically charged to the card. To purchase any of these plans, you must log into your account and go to the section “Store”.
Supported platforms
This online platform easily adapts to different devices and Operating Systems, which makes it possible to use Duolingo on mobile or PC. Therefore, it can be downloaded for free from official stores for o and, in addition, it is possible to access it using Google Chrome.
Characteristics
Duolingo has a series of features or functions that allow the user to get the most out of this platform, while learning a new language. These include:
- Streak: With this function you can keep a daily log of entry to the platform and obtain rewards with it.
- Store– Allows you to purchase accessories or power-ups, such as the “streak protector” or “double or nothing”.
- Lingots: used to buy accessories for “Duo” in the store. They can be earned by leveling up, completing units, or completing a 10-day daily streak.
- Progress EXP: allows you to track experience and achievement of goals.
- To debate: is the Duolingo forum, in which different users of the platform can create conversation topics to practice their preferred language.
- Dictionary: is a special function found in the “More” section when entering “Discuss” and allows you to quickly translate words into any desired language.
- Vocabulary: is located within the menu “Further”. Shows the list of pronouns or words that the user has learned throughout their practices.
- Crowns: is a function that allows you to increase the difficulty level of exercises in Duolingo as you level up. To win them it is necessary to complete the different units.
Advantages and disadvantages
There is no doubt that Duolingo offers many advantages or benefits to the community that uses its interactive learning platform, among these the following stand out:
- It can be used on mobile phones and computers.
- It has 30 different languages to learn.
- It has a simple and attractive interface.
- Promotes learning of new languages.
- Could be used by children and adolescents.
- It has a forum so that users can exchange knowledge.
- The user can organize your own pace Learning.
- The platform can be accessed at any time.
However, despite being a website that incorporates various advantages, there are certain disadvantages or negative points on Duolingo:
- The learning exercises can be repetitive.
- Does not offer advice to users by teachers or professionals in the area.
- It needs an Internet connection to function.
- Teaching does not have pronunciation standardsgrammar or reading comprehension, necessary for correct language learning.
Alternatives
While Duolingo is an excellent alternative for learning languages from all over the world, there are other very similar applications that can also be used on your mobile or PC. Among these are , , , and , some of these only offer a free trial version, as they are paid apps.
In conclusion, Duolingo is a language learning platform that can be used on your cell phone or computer to learn new languages in a fun and simple way.