Duolingo, the language-learning app, is capitalising on artificial intelligence (AI) to personalise its lessons. The company’s AI system, BirdBrain, tailors its teaching methodology to each user’s learning style and pace. It analyses data from the user’s interaction with the app, such as the time spent on a lesson and the mistakes made, to adjust the difficulty level and the type of exercises.
BirdBrain also uses reinforcement learning, a type of machine learning where an AI system learns from its past decisions. It presents different versions of the same lesson to different users and observes which version leads to the best learning outcomes. This information is then used to improve and personalise future lessons.
Duolingo’s AI system has been successful in improving user engagement. The company reports that users are more likely to complete a lesson when it is personalised by BirdBrain. The system also helps in identifying areas where users struggle, allowing Duolingo to adjust its content and improve its teaching methods.
The use of AI in education is not without challenges. Critics argue that AI systems can’t replace human teachers, as they lack the ability to understand and respond to a student’s emotions. Duolingo acknowledges these limitations but believes that its AI system can complement human instruction by providing personalised and adaptive learning experiences.
Go to source article: https://spectrum.ieee.org/duolingo