Is Duolingo effective for learning a foreign language ?

Abstract

The aim of this study will be to test the effectiveness of Duolingo on the foreign language (FE Dutch) reading skills of primary 6 grade pupils over a period of 4 weeks (with 20 minutes of FE exposition per week). No study to date has attempted to measure the effect of Duolingo over this time interval. The additional objective of this study will also be to determine if the level of LE competence of students generated through the use of Duolingo could have a positive effect (significant increase) on pupils’ level of motivation. Motivation to learn a new language seems to be an important factor to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of e-learning techniques on learning (e.g., Escobar-Fandiño, Dary Muñoz & Velandia, 2019). The results of this study could provide us with interesting information about the optimal ways to teach a modern LE through the use of e-learning applications.