The Effect of Using Duolingo Application on Learners’ Vocabulary Mastery The Case of A1 Level Learners at MY SCHOOL Academy of Languages

Abstract

Since vocabulary sustains the acquisition of knowledge, as well as the accessibility of the breadth in many academic areas, the importance of vocabulary development cannot be overestimated. A robust vocabulary is important in accomplishing appropriate and efficient communication in foreign languages. Nevertheless, and as was the case for the majority of learners of English, having an adequate vocabulary repertoire was not always guaranteed. Henceforth, striving to establish the necessary foundation for an effective strategy for vocabulary learning and teaching, the current study was an attempt to gauge the effectiveness of the Duolingo application on learners’ vocabulary mastery. Methodologically, a Mixed methods approach that encompassed a survey design along with quasi-experimentation was adopted. In this respect, and to gather relevant data, two groups; the control group (n=15) and experimental group (n=15) were pre and post-tested. In addition, One semi-structured questionnaire was also administered to novice learners (n=8), who were exposed to learning via the Duolingo application in My School, and another questionnaire was administered to teachers (n=10) in the same school. As anticipated, the research findings proved the practicality of the Duolingo application. This was statistically reflected in the experimental groups’ post-test scores, which were noticeably higher than the control group’s ones. Ultimately, the results also indicated that the participants demonstrated a genuine interest in this innovative strategy, disclosing positive attitudes towards its application to develop learners’ vocabulary proficiency