
Duolingo Challenge
Features For Users Success
Role
UX Design
UI Design
Research
Feature Ideation
Tools
Invision Studio
Figma
Objective
Designing a feature(s) for Duolingo to help new and current users be more successful in learning a new language.
User Journey Considerations:
Assume user knows the language they want to learn
Assume user does not know what language they want to learn
Assume new user is mentally and cognitively an adult
Assume user is serious about learning a new language
(consistently on the app)
Assume time and resources are not limited
Current Features
In order to understand where there are opportunities to improve/add features, it was important to first start by observing the current user journey within the app as well as what features the app already has.
Daily Goals
Encouragement and Positive Reinforcement
Variety of exercises (visual, audible, text)
Gamification (xp, crowns, achievements, shop)
New word definitions
Multiple language options
Clubs (community involvement)
Ability to invite friends
Offline mode
Quizzes
Payments not necessary
Current Features:



Research On Learning
To start coming up with new ideas and concepts, I did some research on the differences between learning languages as a child and as an adult.
Although there are advantages to having started learning a second or other language at a young age, it is not impossible by any means to learn as an adult. There are many steps adults can take to pick up a new language quickly and successfully.
Methods of Learning:
Real-life application
Using a language in real situations
Fluency vs. Accuracy
Learning to communicate fluently rather than being 100% precise
Style of Learning
Know how you learn best (audio, visual etc)
Consistency and Repitition
Celebrate Mistakes
Not fearing making mistakes and inaccuracies
Gamification
Language challenges and tasks to complete as well as reward system
Group / Friend Involvement

https://medium.com/@chacon/mit-scientists-prove-adults-learn-language-to-fluency-nearly-as-well-as-children-1de888d1d45f
https://www.theclassroom.com/young-adults-learning-second-language-6635123.html
https://www.fluentu.com/blog/how-to-learn-a-new-language-fast/
https://www.nbcnews.com/better/pop-culture/how-learn-new-language-15-minute-day-installments-ncna872776