The TWIML AI Podcast (formerly This Week in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence) ML-Powered Language Learning at Duolingo with Burr Settles - #412
Sep 24, 2020
Burr Settles, Research Director at Duolingo, shares insights from his journey in language learning and machine learning. He discusses how Duolingo uses AI to replicate the benefits of one-on-one tutoring at scale. The conversation delves into the evolution of their business model, the challenges of expanding language courses, and the intricacies of developing AI-driven assessments. Additionally, Burr highlights the importance of engagement strategies and the role of community in enhancing user experiences on the platform.
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Burr's Path to Language Learning AI
- Burr Settles's path to Duolingo was non-linear, starting with art, math, and computer science.
- He discovered machine learning, then combined it with his love for languages through biomedical NLP and active learning.
AI's Role in Education
- AI can democratize education by replicating the benefits of one-on-one tutoring at scale.
- Good tutors possess content expertise, engagement skills, and the ability to understand a student's learning process.
Duolingo's Business Model Evolution
- Duolingo's initial business model involved crowdsourced translations of documents like Wikipedia articles.
- This model wasn't sustainable and led to a shift towards the Duolingo English Test and a subscription service.