Duolingo is a platform for FREE language learning, developed by Luis von Ahn and Severin Hacker.
From English, users can currently learn: Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Russian, Dutch, Japanese, Swedish, Irish, Turkish, Norwegian, Danish, Polish, Hebrew, Korean, Greek, Vietnamese, Esperanto, Ukrainian, Welsh, Chinese (Mandarin), Hungarian, Romanian, Swahili and Czech. They are currently developing Hindi, Indonesian and Arabic. Duolingo offers fictional languages as High Valyrio (Games of Thrones) and Klingon (Star Trek).
The page has a very attractive interface and is developed with the methodology of learning as if you were playing.
You can learn one or several languages at a time, making the change from one to another very easy. I can change at any time between the different languages I study: German, French, Japanese and Irish.
In the initial screen of the chosen language, a series of units appear, divided into lessons that will gradually allow us to become familiar with our target language (in this case, the Irish language). This initial screen is what is called "Tree" of units. When completing a unit, the next one is unlocked, forcing us to go through parts, methodically.
All courses are designed to reach a maximum of 25 levels. For which we must complete 30,000 points that accumulate as we do or review lessons. The average of completing the 25 levels for those who dedicate themselves to consciousness is between a year and a half to two years.
You can customize your experience by activating / deactivating audios and the possibility of making verbal repetitions with a microphone. I recommend activating these options for a better use of the platform.
But the most recurrent question is: Do you really learn a language with Duolingo?
The answer I will give is based on my own experience with the platform.
Being serious with the studies and activating all the options (repeat with microphone, audio for listening exercises, daily practice) one could reach a level B1. Although many will agree that only an A2 is reached. To learn more about what these levels imply, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages
Although what is said above depends on the course. Not all languages are developed with the same rigor.
This platform allowed me to improve my ability to listen in English and French, expanded my vocabulary in French. I am still in the process of familiarizing myself with German (although I recognize single words in German films) and with Irish.
Obviously, a mastery in the domain of a language will require practice with native speakers and a lot of texts reading in the target language. But as a powerful start I highly recommend this agile, modern, fun platform for languages lovers.
Tips for better use of Duolingo.
1.- To practice daily, even if it's only 10 or 15 minutes. Practice makes a master.
2.- Divide the practice sessions between reviewing lessons already seen and new lessons.
3.- Concentrate on one language ... maximum two. Jack of all trades, master of none.
4.- Search for resources outside of Duolingo, such as texts, videos, grammar in your target language.
5.- Lean on the chat communities of the language you are learning. It's amazing how people like to help others with their doubts.
6.- Be constant and patient. Take things in stride and as if it were a game. Have fun.
Thank you for reading.