In an exciting development for both chess enthusiasts and learners alike, Duolingo has announced that it will soon add chess lessons to its expanding list of non-language courses, which already includes subjects such as music and math. This new feature is set to launch in beta on the iOS app, providing a unique opportunity for users to enhance their chess skills.
According to Edwin Bodge, Duolingo's senior product manager, the company is focusing on making chess accessible to a broader audience, particularly targeting beginner and intermediate players. The app will start by assessing users' current knowledge of chess, allowing it to customize lessons that cater to individual skill levels. For complete novices, the app will even provide instructions on how each chess piece moves.
For users who already have a basic understanding of chess, Duolingo offers engaging mini-puzzles featuring its character, Oscar. In these puzzles, players will need to capture specific pieces using designated chess pieces, such as a rook. This interactive approach is designed to help users become familiar with piece movements while receiving helpful hints throughout each lesson.
One notable feature of the chess lessons is the app's feedback mechanism. If a player repeatedly moves a piece incorrectly, Duolingo will highlight the correct movement with a large arrow. However, the app is designed to encourage exploration; it will not explicitly indicate wrong moves but will instead inform users through a banner that their choice was not the optimal decision among available options. This method promotes a deeper understanding of chess strategy and movement.
Additionally, users will have the opportunity to engage in full chess games against Oscar, with difficulty levels that adapt to the player's progress. While the current beta version does not allow users to challenge other learners, Duolingo is actively exploring the possibility of adding this feature in future updates. The beta version is expected to be available by mid-May.
Looking ahead, Duolingo is committed to expanding its chess offerings. The company has indicated that it plans to make these chess lessons accessible on Android devices and in multiple languages beyond English in the coming months. This expansion is part of Duolingo's ongoing mission to provide engaging and educational content for a global audience.
Stay tuned for more updates as Duolingo continues to innovate and enhance its platform with new learning opportunities, including chess lessons that make the game fun and accessible for everyone.
