Can Duolingo Reduce Speaking Anxiety: A Literature-Based Analysis
Keywords:
speaking anxiety, Duolingo, mobile language learning, computer-assisted language learning, affective filter, gamification, second language acquisitionAbstract
The article investigates whether Duolingo, a widely used mobile language learning application, helps language learners to overcome their speaking anxiety. The research combines discoveries from three fields of study: pedagogical psychology, educational technology research, and second language acquisition theory to assess how Duolingo's design features impact the main causes of speaking anxiety. The study shows that Duolingo provides some anxiety-reducing benefits through its private low-stakes practice space but the system fails to deliver authentic speaking practice and development of actual communicative skills.
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