EXPLORING UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION TOWARD THE USE OF DUOLINGO IN LEARNING ENGLISH

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study was aimed at investigating the students’ attitudes and perception toward the use of Duolingo in Learning English Methodology: A mixed-method design (quantitative-qualitative) was employed in this study. 60 undergraduate students of Syiah Kuala University participated in this study. They were chosen by using purposive sampling techniques. In obtaining the data, questionnaires and interviews were implemented in this study. In the question area, there were 16 close-ended questions adapted from Yang (2012a) and Garcia Botero and Questier (2016) designed using the Likert scale method. Besides, 3 interview questions were asked to 10 chosen students to deeply reveal their perception in using the Duolingo. Main Findings: The result indicated that most students have a positive perception of the use of Duolingo in learning English (Mean=4.0). This study has found that students view Duolingo as a useful and helpful application and a motivational tool in learning English. One of the more significant findings to emerge from this study is the inconsistency between the students’ perception and their acts in using the application. Their positive view on the use of Duolingo was contrary to the fact that they are lacking time in using the application. Applications of this study: This study is intended to shed some lights on how the students perceive their experiences in learning English after using the Duolingo as a part of their out of class engagement. Novelty/Originality of this study: The students’ motivation to learn English outside of the classroom can be enhanced through the use of the Duolingo in mobile phones.