The Tech Edvocate is pleased to produce its “Trailblazing Companies in Edtech” series. This series profiles the top edtech companies in the world. The Tech Edvocate’s editorial team has exhaustively researched companies in the edtech space to create this series. To frame our methodology, we decided to define the term edtech company broadly. In this series, you will find startups, small and medium-sized businesses, as well as perennial juggernauts, etc. who are transforming the edtech space as we know it.

The companies that we chose are all active in the area of edtech, doing something influential in edtech, well-known throughout the edtech landscape, and making an impact globally. We are excited to witness how these companies continue to change the world this year, and we are anxious to see who will stand on the shoulders of these giants, and as a result, become the next company that we profile in our series. In this installment of “Trailblazing Companies in Edtech,” we will profile Duolingo.

Duolingo

Company Description: With the rise of globalization, being able to learn to communicate in other languages is becoming increasingly necessary. The problem is that the perception most people have about learning languages is almost entirely negative. This is because language learning requires dedication and the ability to follow through even when things get tough.  Language learning is one of the best areas for gamification, and few have mastered how to do that like Duolingo. The site offers 18 full courses on a range of languages. There are several languages currently being beta tested (you can join them if you want to help them make better lessons). There are also some languages that are currently in the incubation period, and once they reach beta, you can start to learn and provide feedback.

How They Are Transforming the EdTech Space: The lessons are not just about real world languages. One of the languages currently being incubated is Klingon, a language from Star Trek. It goes to show that the makers are game for trying things that are both common and uncommon to make something that anyone can enjoy. Each of the lessons are divided up into very easy to manage sessions. They provide a daily goal for you and track your progress so that you can see what you have learned. Over time, you will need to go back and refresh what you have mastered so that you do not forget, and this does count toward your daily goal, then you can continue with the next lesson. The lessons are also presented in a way that makes it easy to understand, remember, and learn the spellings and sounds. It also is incredibly easy to work into your regular routine. You can download the app if you want to keep up your language lessons on the go.

Twitter: @duolingo

Email: [email protected]