Duolinguo redesign (and the very first episode)

Olga Ermishkina, a UX researcher with many years in language tutoring, and Anna Degteva, a conversational designer discuss the redesign of a popular language learning app and its possible impact on users' experience and motivation.

You see, we just couldn't keep silent, had to start a podcast.

• What is better in the long run the correct order of exercises that has been scientifically proven to help you memorize the vocabulary if your follow through, or the motivation which is closely associated with having a say in the matter - and it is this motivation that helps you to follow through?
• Where is the thin line between giving the users control and confusing them with too many options with not-so-clear meaning and consequences?
• What happens if we mix the language learning methodics, which is supposed to teach you to express yourself in another language, and the game design mechanics, where you are rewarded for actions only indirectly related to communicating?
• Is there such a thing as a “bad” user that abuses the reward systems and “farms” XP instead of learning the language “properly” and why should we all care?

To share your thoughts, ideas and comments on the subject you can reach me at my linkedin page (http://www.linkedin.com/in/degteva-anna).

I promise, by the next episode I'll get a dedicated email.