It’s time to flex those language muscles, and Duolingo, an interactive, online learning tool, is your way to do it!
PHOTO DUOLINGOThe votes are in, and folks agree that there is no better way to immerse yourself in a new culture than by learning the native tongue. During my time in Europe, one thing in particular stuck out to me: all my Euro classmates were multilingual! Not bi-lingual, but yes, sometimes tri, quad (?) –lingual! For the most part, Americans usually speak only one language, and that’s English. It’s time to flex those language muscles, and Duolingo, an interactive, online learning tool, is your way to do it!
The site offers training in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and of course, English. Duolingo engages users through games and prompts them to learn through translating exercise, something most language tools don’t offer. And with an overwhelming positive number of reviews, it has the effectiveness of Rosetta Stone, without the price tag. Yep, it’s all for free!
Duolingo’s mascot, the cartoon owl, keeps users amused and on track. One of the newest features is a virtual store where users can purchase virtual goods with their accumulated points. This way, users are constantly engaged and motivated to keep learning. Okay, okay, you won’t be getting paid in paperback, but instead, in “lingots,” Duolingo’s currency. Better to get paid then not right?
Even when you’re not on the computer, you can access Duolingo on the go. Learn words and unlock new levels through your mobile phone, and get closer to fluency wherever you are. With New Years around the corner, Duolingo might just help you achieve your language resolutions next year!
