Duolingo: Language Agora · A case study app design

by Marlon Needelman

An exploration of the next step in Duolingo's mission to teach languages in a way that is fun and self-motivating, this project, in collaboration with Giselle Piloto and Jenna Beavers, was a response to research showing that the gamification model of Duolingo hits a plateau in linguistic ability.
To bridge that gap, we designed a new portal in the app that would enable continued learning through different channels of engagement, namely integration with curated Reels, local connections with language learners and remote connections with learners who natively speak the language you are learning and are actively learning your native language. This was further available in 1-on-1 chats and themed group chats.
The reception was overwhelming positive from users who had hit a wall with their learning.

The full case study is currently under construction. In the meantime you can try out the prototype below.