Learn a new language for free

notareal · 8 Mar 2012, 13:31

A new free language learning service and crowd-sourced text translation platform from developers of CAPTCHA/reCAPTCHA.

Learn a language for free

Duolingo is the world's most popular way to learn a language. It's 100% free, fun and science-based. Practice online on duolingo.com or on the apps!

Duolingo (duolingo.com)

Background info at http://www.ted.com/talks/luis_von_ahn_massive_scale_online_collaboration.html

mitcorb · 11 Mar 2012, 22:31

Thanks for the link. I was impressed enough to maybe give this a try.

Mike Lucey · 12 Mar 2012, 00:02

Notareal, thanks for the headsup . I watched the TED presentation by Luis von Ahn and must say that he spoke well and was also very funny, well worth the watch. BTW, he doesn't look or sound like a 'von Ahn'

You learn something every day! And in this case I now know why those CAPTCHA's have two words, a brilliant idea! But I'm not saying ..... you will have to watch TED.

I think the business model is fair and sound, the user gets to learn a language for free and CAPTCHA get the Web translated for free, a win win.

I've signed up and am awaiting details. I really want to improve my Spanish

I'd say the folks at Rossetta Stone won't be too happy about Duolingo.

Mike

mitcorb · 12 Mar 2012, 01:29

Though I don't know if the format for duolingo is written only--if it is, it will be only part of the learning. Immersive conversational learning must also occur. That is what Rosetta Stone uses as one of its teaching techniques. A colleague of mine is learning Portuguese with Rosetta Stone.

Mike Lucey · 12 Mar 2012, 01:37

You could be right Tim. I think it might be written only but it will have the 'discover' for oneself element. We will see

mitcorb · 12 Mar 2012, 01:51

I am looking forward to it.
Best wishes to you, Mike.

notareal · 12 Mar 2012, 15:51

@mitcorb said:

Though I don't know if the format for duolingo is written only--if it is, it will be only part of the learning. Immersive conversational learning must also occur. That is what Rosetta Stone uses as one of its teaching techniques. A colleague of mine is learning Portuguese with Rosetta Stone.

I am in a impression that it's written only - but let's wait and see how it will develop and work. Still the idea behind the duolingo is brilliant!

mitcorb · 12 Mar 2012, 17:44

Absolutely, I agree with you on this, notareal.

pilou · 12 Mar 2012, 18:52

Amazing video !