University Students' Perception of Duolingo to Improve Vocabulary Masteryin Learning English

Aug 29, 2026

Mastering vocabulary in learning English as a foreign language poses persistent challenges because learners must memorize and apply words in unfamiliar contexts rather than acquiring vocabulary naturally as in their first language. Web-based games and educational apps can create enjoyable learning conditions that lower anxiety and support vocabulary growth, with Duolingo as a prominent example. This mixed-method study uses purposive sampling to examine students’ perceptions of Duolingo for strengthening English vocabulary. Results show predominantly positive views on its interactive game-based approach, enjoyment, engagement, and anytime-anywhere flexibility.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages10

Reading Time25 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction

Vocabulary mastery in English learning

Challenges in foreign-language vocabulary acquisition

Role of technology and interactive learning apps

Research focus

Students' perceptions of Duolingo

University Students' Perception of Duolingoto Improve Vocabulary Masteryin Learning English [https://doi.org/10.31004/jele.v9i6.595](https://doi.org/10.31004/jele.v9i6.595) 􀀍Azizah Palupi Cahyoningtyas Universitas Slamet Riyadi Surakarta Corresponding Author: [azizahpalupi77@gmail.com](azizahpalupi77@gmail.com) | A B S T R A C T | | | --- | --- | | Mastering vocabulary in learning English as a foreign language often poses challenges for students, as they must memorize and apply words in new contexts, unlike their native language, which is acquired naturally. In recent years, web-based games and educational applications have gained popularity by creating enjoyable learning environments that reduce student anxiety and facilitate vocabulary acquisition, one example being Duolingo. This study aims to explore students' perceptions of using Duolingo to enhance their English vocabulary. The research adopts a mixed-method approach with purposive sampling. Findings reveal that students have a positive perception of the effectiveness of Duolingo in enriching their English vocabulary. The majority of participants agreed that the interactive game-based learning approach makes the learning process more enjoyable and engaging. Many students appreciated the flexibility of the application, allowing them to learn anytime and anywhere, which is an added value in helping them retain vocabulary effectively.
Keywords: Perception, University Students, Duolingo, Vocabulary. | | | Article History:
Received 28th November 2024
Accepted 22nd December 2024
Published 24th December 2024 | | INTRODUCTION Vocabulary mastery is forms a core component in the learning process of the English language and plays a critical role in communication both in oral and written (Richards, 2001) . Jack C. Richards states that vocabulary is very foundation upon which clear communication and understanding are anchored. As Jack C. Richards explains, vocabulary provides the platform on which communication is based. Persons with a wider vocabulary can understand and express information more coherently and precisely. Knowing new words, allows students to learn meaning in conversational contexts, thus enhancing overall comprehension. Also, a good reading vocabulary promotes speed and depth of comprehension of the text, thereby allowing readers to engage with the material at a deeper level. On the contrary, limited vocabulary impairs one's capacity to express clearly what he or she wants to say and could lead to misunderstandings or ineffective communication. Furthermore, Scott Thornbury emphasizes that vocabulary is the crucial element ineffective communication, in other words learners usually need about 2,000 words to engage in basic conversations (Thornbury, 2006) . This observation highlights that vocabulary is more than the mere assembling of words; it is an essential device to be used in the development of a complete language capability. Mastery of vocabulary not only gives the learner full expression but also enhances interaction with others in social environments. Thus, it is for this reason that vocabulary acquisition has become one of the most important aspects of educational learning, as it specifically relates to a student’s ability to communicate effectively and interrelate meaningfully with both spoken and written text. A solid foundation in vocabulary thus becomes prime importance for learners in their quest to amass the relevant skills necessary to tackle language and communication effectively. Mastering vocabulary in learning English as a foreign language is one of the most difficult areas for students, as they must memorize and utilize words in new contexts, unlike their native language, which is acquired naturally (Laufer, 1990) . As a result, more work needs to be done when the words are infrequently used in life. Therefore, technology and interactive ways are some of the best means for enriching vocabulary, which allows stude

FAQs

Why is vocabulary mastery considered central to English learning?

Vocabulary underpins clear oral and written communication. Learners with a wider vocabulary can understand and express ideas more coherently and precisely.

What challenges do students face when learning vocabulary as a foreign language?

Students must memorize and use words in new contexts, and infrequently used words may require extra effort. Limited vocabulary can also reduce the ability to express intentions clearly.

How does the study evaluate Duolingo’s impact on vocabulary?

The research uses a mixed-method approach with purposive sampling to explore students’ perceptions. Findings indicate that many students view Duolingo’s interactive, game-based learning as enjoyable and effective for vocabulary retention.

Aug 29, 2026

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