We tried out Duolingo for about 10 minutes to explore how it provides feedback and handles language learning.
Feedback Provided
Duolingo gives immediate feedback on each question. If we get something right, it provides positive reinforcement with a sound or animation (like a green checkmark and a “ding”). If we got something wrong, it shows the correct answer and sometimes offers a brief explanation. The tool also tracks streaks, XP, and progress through levels to encourage consistency. The feedback is somewhat individualized, if we repeatedly struggle with a certain word or concept, Duolingo adjusts and presents similar exercises to reinforce learning. However, it doesn’t offer deeply personalized explanations beyond basic hints.
Handling of Cloze Exercises
Duolingo includes cloze (fill-in-the-blank) exercises where we had to type missing words or select them from a word bank. It does allow some flexibility in answers. For instance, if we used a synonym or a different word order that is still grammatically correct, it often accepted our answer. However, it sometimes marked answers as incorrect even when they were technically correct, which could be frustrating.
Working On, Around, or Through the Language
Duolingo emphasizes working directly in the language through translation, listening, and speaking exercises. It doesn’t provide extensive explanations of grammar before exercises but instead encourages learning through exposure and practice. While it does allow some indirect learning (e.g., explanations in the “Tips” section), its main approach is immersion-based rather than a traditional grammar-first method.
Overall, Duolingo is an engaging tool with interactive feedback, but it can sometimes lack deeper explanations for more advanced learners.