#Gamified language apps

[theenglishnook]

The Gamification Revolution in Language Learning

Level Up Your Language Skills Embarking on the journey of language acquisition has undergone a thrilling metamorphosis, ushered in by the captivating wave of the gamification of language learning. Imagine language learning not as a tedious task but as an immersive quest, where learners don the mantle of heroes in a digital realm, unlocking linguistic prowess and cultural insights. The…

[ayin-me-yesh]

In light of Duolingo laying off its translators, here are my favourite language apps (primarily for Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, and te reo Māori).

Multiple Languages

Anki is a flashcard programme and app that's not exclusively for languages. While making your own decks is ideal, you can also download shared decks for most languages.

If you're learning Japanese, specifically, Seth Clydesdale has websites for practicing alongside Genki's 2nd or 3rd editions, and he also provides his own shared Anki decks for Genki.

And if you're learning te reo Māori, specifically, here's a guide on how to make your own deck.

TOFU Learn is an app for learning vocabulary that's very similar to Anki. However, it has particularly excellent shared decks for East Asian languages. I've used it extensively for practicing 汉字. Additionally, if you're learning te reo Māori, there's a shared deck of vocabulary from Māori Made Easy!

Mandarin Chinese

Hello Chinese is a fantastic app for people at the HSK 1-4 levels. While there's a paid version, the only thing paying unlocks is access to podcast lessons, which imo are not really necessary. Without paying you still have access to all the gamified lessons which are laid out much like Duolingo's lessons. However, unlike Duolingo, Hello Chinese actually teaches grammar directly, properly teaches 汉字, and includes native audio practice.

Japanese

Renshuu is a website and app for learning and practicing Japanese. The vast majority of its content is available for free. There's also a Discord community where you can practice alongside others.

Kanji Dojo is a free and open source app for learning and practicing the stroke order of kanji. You can learn progressively by JLPT level or by Japanese grades. There's also the option to learn and practice kana stroke order as well.

[strawberrysznn]

Beauty AND brains. Your knowledge is your weapon.

Let's not only be insanely beautiful but also disgustingly educated. Other than discipline and hard work, your knowledge is your weapon in this world of chaos, something that you can sharpen and use.

Where can you expand your knowledge? What areas, what topics

How can you expand your knowledge? In different circumstances and preferences such as if you're too busy or if you have a short attention span

Where can you expand your knowledge?

I DO NOT mean that you need to be an expert at everything. You don't need multiple degrees for each type of intelligence. However, if you want to sharpen your weapon, sharpen your knowledge.

These are the areas where you CAN sharpen your knowledge AND the areas where you SHOULD know the basics in:

Emotional, Communication, Morals, Ethics. Be human, and make others feel human too. Cultivate empathy, understand mental health, build your conscience, and differentiate right from wrong. Communicate frequently and effectively.

History, Culture, Politics. The world is chaotic — learn to stand your ground. Understand history, politics, corruption, culture, and the overlooked heroes. Know what shaped the past to navigate the future.

Digital Literacy. The internet is a double-edged sword. Learn to navigate it safely, protect your privacy, spot misinformation, and adapt to evolving technology.

Manners, Etiquette, Body Language. The way you present yourself matters. Respect others, read unspoken cues, and master the art of presence.

Self-Sufficiency, Life Skills, Livelihood. You won’t always have someone to rely on. Cook, clean, manage time, handle money, and adapt to life’s challenges. Be independent.

Literature, Language, Writing. Words are power. Read, write, and communicate with depth. Language shapes history, culture, and thought—use it wisely.

Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving. The world isn’t black and white. Question everything, analyze critically, recognize manipulation, and think for yourself. Don't be swayed easily by others.

Science and Math. The foundation of everything. At least know the basics, enough to understand the forces shaping the world — logic, numbers, and the universe itself.

Self-Care, Hygiene, Fitness, Health. Your body and mind are your greatest assets. Eat well, stay active, manage stress, and prioritize your well-being before it’s too late.

How can you expand your knowledge?

When you have free time When you're busy When you prefer learning visually When you have little to no attention span

You are what you consume. Now that you know what topics you can expand your knowledge on, these are what you can use / do to consume those information:

Have some free time? Do / use these

Read books, take online courses, or watch in-depth documentaries. (Example: history books, finance courses, science explainers) Engage in discussions or debates to refine your thinking. (Example: politics, ethics, critical thinking) Try hands-on learning like experiments, DIY projects, or journaling. (Example: cooking, coding, writing) Attend workshops, seminars, or community events.

Too busy? Do / use these

Listen to podcasts or audiobooks while traveling, doing tasks / work / school work, or doing chores. (Example: podcasts on Spotify / Tiktok, Youtube videos where the creator is more on speaking, audiobooks on Audible or by downloading a free e-pub format e-book online then uploading it into Google Playbooks and using the audiobook / text-to-speech format) Follow bite-sized content on social media. (Example: short educational / history Tiktok videos, digital literacy infographics, photos on Pinterest) Take advantage of apps and tools for productivity, learning, etc. (Example: budgeting apps, language-learning apps) Watch short, informative videos during breaks. (Example: TED-Ed, Ted Talks, short Tiktok videos)

Like to learn visually / by watching? Do / use these

Watch video explainers, documentaries, or animated infographics. Use apps that gamify learning. (Example: Duolingo for language, Codecademy for coding) Follow visually engaging content creators. (Example: finance charts, body language breakdowns) Make mind maps or illustrated notes to break down complex topics. (Example: self-care routines, political structures, problem-solving techniques)

Little to no attention span? Do / use these

Learn through short-form content like TikToks, reels, or infographics. Play interactive or gamified learning apps. (Example: strategy games, trivia quizzes) Follow meme-based or storytelling-style education accounts. Try hands-on, fast-paced activities. (Example: debate flash rounds, real-world problem-solving challenges, DIY experiments)

Begin small, learn the basics, take a step at a time, and start from there. Be BOTH beauty and brains. You have a weapon (your knowledge), sharpen it and use it.

[bowsersex]

This one is really weird to me. I wonder why these results are like this. Have the 60.7% never played Duolingo? Thus they don't know how gameified Duolingo is? Or have they played Duolingo, but just never practiced learning a language in a non-gamified way, and so to them Duolingo is just what language learning is like, so to them it's only a language learning app/website, and not also a video game. Or does the 60.7% just have a stricter idea of what makes something a video game. Very interesting.

[mommyownsmee]

How to be Little in public without others noticing ♡

If you find yourself slipping into littlespace in public (like in class, at work, or around people who don’t know about it) and want to stay in that safe, small headspace without drawing attention, here are some subtle ways to comfort yourself, stay present, and embrace your little side quietly.

This post contains:

1. Internal Littlespace – Staying in Your Head

2. Secret Fidgeting & Comfort Items

3. Secret Little Treats & Sensory Comfort

4. Writing & Secret Notes to Yourself

5. Discreet Listening & Digital Comfort

6. Body Language & Subtle Self-Soothing

7. Positive Reinforcement & Secret Rewards

8. Planning for Later

‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞ ୨୧ ‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿͞‿

Internal Littlespace – Staying in Your Head

• 🧸 Use Your Inner Little Voice – Instead of speaking in little talk out loud, let your thoughts be playful and soft. Tell yourself, “I’m being such a good little one doing my work,” or imagine your caregiver praising you in your mind.

• 💕 Create a Secret Game for Yourself – Try giving yourself little challenges, like:

- “If I write five more sentences, I get to doodle a tiny heart.”

- “If I finish this task, I get to take a sip of my juice box.”

• 🎀 Assign Cute Names to Objects – Your pen can be Mr. Scribbles, your phone can be Blinky, and your backpack can be Adventure Pack.

• 💭 Imagine Your CG (or Comfort Character) Watching Over You – If you have a CG, picture them watching proudly as you do your work. If you don’t, think of a favorite plushie, cartoon character, or even a pet, encouraging you!

Secret Fidgeting & Comfort Items

• 🖊 Use a Cute Pen or Pencil – A soft pastel pen, a squishy pencil grip, or a character-themed writing tool can make work feel fun.

• 🎀 Wear Something Small That Makes You Feel Little – A bracelet, ring, necklace, or hair clip with a small charm that reminds you of being little.

• 🧸 Keep a Tiny Comfort Object in Your Pocket or Bag – A mini plushie, small sensory stone, soft fabric, or a keychain can help ground you.

• 🎨 Doodle Secretly – You can draw in the margins of your notes, on a sticky note, or in a small journal. Even tiny stars, flowers, or smiley faces can feel comforting.

• ☁️ Squish Something Soft – Keep a stress ball, slime, or soft scrunchie in your pocket to fidget with subtly.

Secret Little Treats & Sensory Comfort

• 🍎 Pack a Fun Snack – A juice box, fruit snacks, goldfish crackers, or anything fun and nostalgic that won’t stand out too much.

• 🍬 Keep Hard Candy or Gum – Sucking on something sweet like a lollipop or chewing bubblegum can feel comforting without anyone noticing.

• 🌈 Use Lightly Scented Hand Lotion – Pick something soft like vanilla, cotton candy, or strawberries. Applying lotion can feel soothing and help you stay grounded.

• ☕ Drink from a Cute Water Bottle – A pastel bottle or one decorated with stickers can feel like a secret little comfort.

Writing & Secret Notes to Yourself

• 📒 Use a Cute Journal or Planner – Decorate it with stickers, colorful pens, or washi tape. Writing things in a playful way can keep you feeling small.

• ✍️ Make To-Do Lists in a Fun Way – Instead of “Finish Essay,” write “Write Smart Words!” or “Do Big Girl Work!”

• 📖 Write Yourself a Love Note – Tuck a small sticky note in your notebook that says “You’re a good little one!” or “CG would be proud!”

Discreet Listening & Digital Comfort

• 🎧 Listen to Comforting Music – If allowed, wear earbuds and listen to soft piano, Disney instrumentals, lofi beats, or cozy soundscapes.

• 📱 Set a Cute Phone Wallpaper – Pick an image of a plushie, a soft pastel aesthetic, or a comfort character.

• 🖥 Use a Cozy Study Timer App – Apps like Forest, Study Bunny, or Pomodoro let you gamify work while keeping a gentle, comforting theme.

• 📚 Read Something Cute on Breaks – Whether it’s a lighthearted story, a favorite childhood book, or a short fanfiction, reading something soft can help.

Body Language & Subtle Self-Soothing

• 🧦 Wear Soft Socks or Comfy Underlayers – Even if no one sees, fuzzy socks, soft leggings, or a cozy bralette can make you feel safe.

• 🌸 Hold Your Sleeves or Play with Your Jewelry – Holding onto something, like the edge of your sweater, a pendant, or a ring, can be a secret comfort.

• ✋ Rub Your Fingers Together or Tap Your Thigh Lightly – A repetitive, gentle motion can help regulate emotions and keep you grounded.

• 😌 Take Deep, Quiet Breaths – Inhale slowly, hold for three seconds, and exhale gently through your nose. This keeps you relaxed.

Positive Reinforcement & Secret Rewards

• 🌟 Give Yourself Silent Praises – “Good job, me!” after completing a task can feel rewarding.

• 💖 Pretend Your CG (or Comfort Character) is Watching – Imagine them smiling, hugging you, or patting your head when you finish something hard.

• 🏅 Set Tiny Rewards for Yourself – “If I finish this paragraph, I can sip my juice box,” or “If I complete this page, I get to hold my plushie later.”

Planning for Later

• 🏡 Think About Your Littlespace Routine at Home – Plan what you’ll do when you get home, like coloring, watching cartoons, or snuggling a plushie.

• 💤 Promise Yourself Rest Time – Remind yourself that even if you can’t fully be little now, you’ll have time for it later.

💖 Remember: It’s okay to feel little anywhere! These small, subtle tricks can help keep you happy, safe, and comfortable no matter where you are. You don’t have to show anyone your littlespace unless you want to.

Your little self is valid, loved, and adorable. 🌸✨

[faaun]

do you have any tips for how to learn languages? :)

yh i think so! textbook pdfs, podcasts (!!! seriously useful), inkstone for chinese, language exchange apps like Tandem, this masterpost, this mega folder full of resources curated by @\salvadorbonaparte, lingodeer as a more casual gamified supplement, anki for flashcards/vocab :)

[ros3ybabe]

Current Japanese Study Routine + Resources 🎀

As you all may know, I am currently self studying Japanese and Spanish, though I am putting Spanish on the back burner for now so I can focus more on Japanese as that is where my passion lies at the moment. Lucky for me, there is a Japanese language and culture club on my university campus that I am (hopefully) going to join next week or the week after, given how busy my schedule ends up being. I thought I’d make a little post about my current routine that I use to study and what resources I am currently using and am planning on purchasing to use in order to build my proficiency in this beautiful language!

Current Resources 🩷

Apps - I am currently playing around with several apps to see which ones work for me, so here is all the apps I currently have downloaded to my iPad/phone

Duolingo - this has been a go to for all language I’ve ever tried to learn, it’s useful for me as a basic introduction to vocabulary, sentence structure, some grammar, and I just like how it involves typing, speaking, listening, and reading.

Drops - this one is just a fun little 5 minutes gamified way to learn vocabulary for me, it’s definitely a go to on my lazier language learning days

Bunpo - I like this for learning the kana but I didn’t realize it costs money to use fully so I am debating purchasing a subscription to the paid version

Write Japanese - this one I’m using to learn the correct stroke order for the kana and I like it for the most part

Renshuu - I just signed in to use this one last night and it looks interesting. I’ve seen it recommended by several blogs and even when google searching language learning and watching YouTube videos so I’m excited to try it out!

NHK for School - I saw someone recommend this on their blog and I remember using the website version in the past so I know this will be helpful when it comes to reading

Jisho - this is a dictionary app that I’ve seen recommended on so many platforms and I’m always open to a good dictionary!

Japanese - this one was recommended on a blog post and it allows you to add vocabulary and interesting phrases so I thought it’d be useful once I start on learning sentence structure and grammar

Italki - this one is the one I’m most excited to use. It connects you to people who speak and teach your target language for a set timed lesson, and it does cost money but you pay by lesson, not on a subscription basis. So if you do one lesson the first week and then another lesson in three weeks or something, you only pay for those two lessons. I’m really looking forward to trying this one out in the future once I get more comfortable with speaking.

Anki - a flash card app I am using to currently learn hiragana and will soon use for katakana and eventually kanji and phrases. I was gonna use Quizlet but I ended up liking this one better for my current needs.

LingoDeer, Memrise, Babbel, HiNative, HelloTalk, Hey Japan, Busuu, Kanji, Kana, Sensei - apps that I have and have not tried yet. I really like the ones I’ve already tried so I’m not sure if I’m going to use these ones soon but if I get bored of current apps than I at least have alternatives to turn to to continue learning

Textbooks/Workbooks/Materials - I currently own two workbooks but will include the resource I am planning on buying, as well as any stationery material I am also using!

Japanese for Busy People I - This was the workbook we had for the Japanese class I took at my university while in high school. My dad ended up buying it for me if I promised not to take Japanese classes once I went to college. (My parents don’t believe it is useful to know and they are helping pay for my education so I didn’t have a choice.) I haven’t started reusing it yet but once I am comfortable with the kana then I will resume using it.

Let’s Learn Katakana - this is a katakana writing book my older brother bought for me (he is supportive of everything I have an interest in even if he doesn’t understand it himself) and it is really useful for learning and practicing writing katakana. However I am still focusing on relearning hiragana so I will return to this workbook after I solidify my hiragana knowledge.

Genki I and Genki II textbook/workbook + answer key bundle - I am planning to buy this off of Amazon as I have heard from most people who are learning Japanese on their own that this set is really useful for self studying so of course I am going to invest in it once I get paid next week.

I am also looking for a hiragana, katakana, and kanji writing workbook to practice those skills.

Free Online Resources -

YouTube!

Anime!

Music

Manga

Anything free I can find online when google searching resources

Stationary Supplies -

Kokuyo Campus Smart Ring Binder in pink

Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pens in black

Index cards

Pilot g-2 fashion pens

Zebra mild liner highlighter/markers

Papermate Mechanical Pencils

Mini notebook to carry around for vocabulary

My iPad + Apple Pencil + Goodnotes 5

My Chromebook

A lot of resources but I am trying to stick with this for the long term. A few years ago, I self studied Japanese everyday for about 2 years and gained a good understanding but fell off from studying Japanese when I went to university.

My Current Study Routine* 🎀

*when I have more than 30 minutes to study, if I only have 30 minutes or less I just mess around on my language apps

I currently do not use any workbooks or textbooks as I am trying to re familiarize myself with the language. Here’s my current study routine!

Practice Anki flashcards 3 times or until I get 85-90% correct

Practice hiragana writing in Write Japanese app (~10min)

Duolingo lessons for 10 minutes

1 Japanese language Drops lesson

Use Renshuu until I get bored (~10-15min)

Watch an episode of anime as a reward (Japanese audio with English subtitles)

I will switch this up to a more structured way of studying once I start using my textbooks and workbooks, but for now this relaxed style of learning is working for me time wise and attention wise (ADHD brain right here).

I also listen to Japanese music throughout the day and try to recall hiragana characters correctly in my head when I have the time. I also sneak in some practice when at work on my apps and whatnot. I mentioned in my last daily check in some of my favorite Japanese artists, and I also love Japanese versions of K-pop songs too! I’m currently watching Bungou Stray Dogs on crunchyroll right now, and I’m open to any recommendations for what to watch next!

If anyone has any language learning tips or resources they’d want to share, feel free to comment! It would be greatly appreciated!

Til next time my lovelies 🩷🤍

[a-pop-of-korean]

Sorry to bother you but I’m really for some advice on how to study for TOPIK 1/2 vocabulary. I tried flashcards both handwritten and Anki but i eventually stopped because it just gets really boring and repetitive. Do you know any entertaining ways you can review vocabulary? (Maybe games or apps that are entertaining and interactive) Also I wanna know your opinion on using A.I to review and practice Korean. I’ve been using it to review grammar and practice reading pronunciation there, it’s honestly really helpful if you don’t have anyone to talk to you in Korean. Would you recommend that method or do you think A.I might teach or say awkward phrases that aren’t really said in Korean.

Hello! I think Drops is a great app to help you memorize vocabulary in an easy, gamified way. I don't believe you can upload your own lists of vocabulary and study those, but the app should already have plenty of vocabulary that you need to know for the topic tests. It has a wide range of vocabulary, so it can help regardless of your level. It also keeps track of your streaks, keeping you accountable for practicing daily. If you do want to use your own vocab lists, try Quizlet; I never really used it much but I think it has games and other activities to help you memorize the words.

As for your question regarding AI, I personally would not recommend something like ChatGPT to explain anything about Korean to me. I remember I once asked it to explain the difference between -아/어/여서 and -(으)니까, and its response was pretty inaccurate. I haven't used other AI tools for Korean since, and maybe AI has become more sophisticated or something, but I generally don't have faith in its ability to help you learn another language. I think native speakers of that language are best equipped to explain the nuances of their grammar and vocabulary and create natural sounding sentences, not a robot. After all, language is a human phenomenon!

I'm not sure how exactly you use it, but if you find it helpful for practicing pronunciation, however, I think that's probably okay since Korean pronunciation has pretty straightforward rules that can be taught to a machine (if that makes sense--I'm not a comp sci person lol). I wish AI were better for language learning otherwise at this point since it would be great to, say, have a tool that can automatically check the correctness of your sentences or provide you with natural sentences, but I personally don't think it can. Thank you for the great question though--it really got me thinking and I would love to hear other's thoughts on it! I hope this is helpful :) 화이팅!

[versionloop]

heyyy howdy it's erika (s/h, 21+) this time with girlboss coder extraordinaire (debatable) miss shinohara reiko, filling in for the the disaster prodigy label. although as you'll see below, tipping much more into disaster than prodigy atm. you know how it goes — give this a like if you'd like to plot and i’ll make my way into your dms ♡

QUICK FACTS

shinohara reiko, 22, 3rd year ui/ux design + compsci minor, staying at nuri hall. running on iced americanos, delusion, and 32 open tabs

from shizuoka → seoul on a scholarship that said "high potential". she took that personally.

only child to a couple of illustrators! enjoyed the aesthetics side of things (it’s in the bloodline, after all) but stumbled upon scratch one day and never looked back. started with animations, by middle school she was automating her homework and rewriting her school’s club website "for fun"

won a hackathon in her first year with seniors who now work for samsung/hyundai/lg/naver with unlimited pto and crazy signing bonuses. meanwhile she’s still here in yeonhwa… trying to fix a matchmaking algorithm that never meant to matchmake.

fullstack prodigy but she's a girlypop who ultimately chose frontend bc what are apps if they're not fun and pleasant to look at ✨ (we are shallow creatures after all…)

will hoard a sweet corn booth for 6 hours. will fight you if you unplug her charger. if you see her crying over figma, no you didn’t.

TALKTALK / 톡톡

yes, it’s a pun. talk talk meets knock knock meets 똑똑 (smart). she’s insufferable and she knows it

concept: connect local + intl students via language exchange. reality: launched like tinder, not duolingo. status: sunsetted. still cited in girls in tech korea panels.

said app that made her team win a hackathon during her first year, read more about the app here

campus backed them to prototype. they soft launched. people started using it in all ways but intended. catfishing, flirting, fake profiles... you name it

currently rebuilding it quietly as a v2.0 (safer, smarter, cuter!) while pretending it’s not a soft spot. doesn’t want to be a one-hit wonder. but also doesn’t want people to forget it was her.

(sidenote: also has a notes app full of new app ideas she’ll probably never build. it’s fine. she’s fine)

PERSONALITY & MANNERISMS

bc obvi u can read someone based on their birthchart.. scorpio sun, aquarius moon, capri rising (read: crashouts at least once a week)

heavy on the mbti!!!! intj architect queen 😎 altho on the cusp of t/f.. stoic until someone compliments her ui then it's OVER

once said "this button feels emotionally dishonest" in a team meeting and meant it. very matter of fact when speaking, until the brain finally registers and overthinks the repercussions of what she had said

swears she’s logical and pragmatic but panic buys multiple shades of fwee pudding pots when stressed

still gets drained by people but loves humans enough to build for them. makes excuses to leave the room, but also wants you to chase her down the hallway for advice

score oriented. gamifies everything. wears an oura ring to track her sleep schedule and gets pissy when her sleep score drops from 90 to 63 over two days (she insisted on finishing a design.. one more page.. it’s 4am.)

overcommits like it’s a sport. signs up for everything, helps everyone, picks up side projects she never finishes — not because she has time, but because it’s easier to be busy than to admit she’s stuck. gets praised for being productive. dog on fire meme in the inside

terrible posture. insists on using her osoi tote bag to carry her laptop + charger + headphones (still among other things...)

plotting-wise, i'm a huge brainstormer so more than happy to talk through whatever suits our muses best!! to get us started, i have a non-exhaustive potential plots page here — but feel free to share any and all ideas you have outside of these bc i'm all ears ♡

[papayajuan2019]

i cringe every time i hear someone is learning a language through an app. babyboy those are meant to gamify a facsimile of learning and keep you on them interminably, not actually give you a grasp on language

[theenglishnook]

The Power and Perils of Learning Through Games

Unlocking Language Proficiency In the dynamic landscape of language acquisition, where immersion and engagement are pivotal, the integration of games into learning environments has emerged as a potent tool. Harnessing the innate human affinity for play, incorporating games into language learning endeavors offers a multitude of benefits that are both scientifically backed and experientially…

[werewolfbarista]

gamified language learning app save me .

[playstationvii]

Jest: A Concept for a New Programming Language

Summary: "Jest" could be envisioned as a novel computer programming language with a focus on humor, playfulness, or efficiency in a specific domain. Its design might embrace creativity in syntax, a unique philosophy, or a purpose-driven ecosystem for developers. It could potentially bridge accessibility with functionality, making coding intuitive and enjoyable.

Definition: Jest: A hypothetical computer language designed with a balance of simplicity, expressiveness, and potentially humor. The name suggests it might include unconventional features, playful interactions, or focus on lightweight scripting with a minimalist approach to problem-solving.

Expansion: If Jest were to exist, it might embody these features:

Playful Syntax: Commands and expressions that use conversational, quirky, or approachable language. Example:

joke "Why did the loop break? It couldn't handle the pressure!"; if (laughs > 0) { clap(); }

Efficiency-Focused: Ideal for scripting, rapid prototyping, or teaching, with shortcuts that reduce boilerplate code.

Modular Philosophy: Encourages user-created modules or libraries, reflecting its playful tone with practical use cases.

Integrated Humor or Personality: Built-in error messages or prompts might be witty or personalized.

Flexibility: Multi-paradigm support, including functional, procedural, and object-oriented programming.

Transcription: An example code snippet for a Jest-like language:

// Hello World in Jest greet = "Hello, World!"; print(greet); laugh();

A Jest program that calculates Fibonacci numbers might look like this:

// Fibonacci in Jest fib = (n) => n < 2 ? n : fib(n-1) + fib(n-2);

joke "What's the Fibonacci sequence? You'll love it, it grows on you!"; n = 10; print("The Fibonacci number at", n, "is:", fib(n));

Potential Domains:

Gamified education

Creative industries

AI-driven storytelling

Interactive debugging

Would you like me to refine or explore additional aspects?

Certainly! If we were to imagine Jest as the brainchild of a creative coder or team, their portfolio would likely include other innovative or experimental programming languages. Let’s expand on this concept and invent some plausible complementary languages the same inventor might have designed.

Related Languages by the Inventor of Jest

Pantomime

Description: A visual programming language inspired by gesture and movement, where users "drag and drop" symbols or create flowcharts to express logic. Designed for non-coders or children to learn programming through interaction.

Key Features:

Icon-based syntax: Conditional loops, variables, and functions represented visually.

Works seamlessly with Jest for creating visual representations of Jest scripts.

Sample Code (Visual Representation): Flowchart blocks: Input → Decision → Output.

Facet

Description: A declarative programming language focusing on creativity and modularity, aimed at artists, designers, and 3D modelers. Facet could integrate well with game engines and creative suites like Blender or Unity.

Key Features:

Embedded visual tools for shaders, animations, and simulations.

Simplified expressions for creative coding (e.g., animations and generative art).

Sample Code:

shape = circle(radius: 10, color: "blue"); animation = wave(shape, amplitude: 5, frequency: 2); render(animation, duration: 10s);

Quip

Description: A lightweight scripting language built for humor, similar to Jest, but more focused on natural language processing, chatbots, and interactive storytelling.

Key Features:

Syntax mirrors conversational English.

Designed for AI integration, especially in storytelling apps.

Sample Code:

character "Alice" says "Hello! What's your name?"; user_input -> name; character "Alice" says "Nice to meet you, {name}!";

Cryptic

Description: A language for designing cryptography algorithms and secure communications. Aimed at developers interested in blockchain, encryption, or cybersecurity.

Key Features:

High-level abstractions for cryptographic primitives.

Secure-by-design philosophy.

Sample Code:

key = generate_key(algorithm: "AES", length: 256); encrypted_message = encrypt("Hello, World!", key); print(encrypted_message);

Harmony

Description: A reactive programming language for building interactive user interfaces, designed to be highly interoperable with Jest and other tools in the suite. Perfect for web developers and app creators.

Key Features:

Two-way data binding with minimal boilerplate.

Component-based architecture.

Sample Code:

component Button { state: clicked = false; onClick() { clicked = !clicked; alert("Button clicked!"); } } render(Button);

Inventor’s Vision

The coder or team behind Jest and these complementary languages would likely be passionate about:

Accessibility: Making programming intuitive and fun for people of all skill levels.

Playfulness: Infusing coding with creativity, humor, and expressiveness.

Interoperability: Ensuring all their languages work well together for larger projects.

Would you like me to dive deeper into one of these languages, conceptualize others, or expand Jest further?

Expanded Concepts and Bridge Languages

Pantomime

Expansion: Adds support for AR/VR interfaces where users use gestures to program logic in 3D space. For example, drawing a loop physically creates a repetitive cycle.

Bridge Language: GestureScript: Converts AR/VR gestures from Pantomime into traditional code for broader applications.

Facet

Expansion: Enhanced for generative AI tools, allowing users to define complex artistic styles and AI-driven procedural designs.

Bridge Language: PixelForge: Focused on exporting Facet code into game engines, enabling real-time rendering pipelines for interactive environments.

Quip

Expansion: Includes pre-trained AI models for dynamic storytelling, allowing Quip scripts to evolve based on user interaction.

Bridge Language: Narrate: Combines Quip scripts with voice-to-text technologies for live storytelling in games or educational tools.

Cryptic

Expansion: Introduces quantum-safe cryptography primitives and allows simulation of blockchain-like ecosystems for testing purposes.

Bridge Language: CipherBridge: Translates Cryptic code into various blockchain frameworks like Ethereum or Solana.

Harmony

Expansion: Gains support for cross-platform development, allowing users to write code for web, mobile, and IoT devices simultaneously.

Bridge Language: Symphony: Converts Harmony components into platform-native scripts for seamless integration.

Additional Bridge Languages

Echo: Bridges Quip and Jest, enabling storytelling code to trigger functional scripts for immersive experiences.

Morph: A universal language that compiles any Jest family code into executable binaries for specific operating systems.

Thread: Integrates Cryptic and Harmony to build secure, reactive user interfaces for fintech applications.

Canvas: Bridges Facet and Pantomime to create interactive art in AR/VR, blending visual coding with gesture inputs.

Let me know if you'd like a deeper dive into any specific language or bridge concept!

Here's a detailed exploration of Echo, Morph, Thread, Canvas, and all previously mentioned languages, emphasizing their unique applications and advanced functionalities.

Expanded Bridge Languages

Echo

Purpose: Links storytelling elements in Quip with functional programming in Jest, enabling dynamic, immersive interactions between narrative and logic.

Key Features:

Story-driven logic triggers: e.g., a character’s dialogue prompts a database query or API call.

Integration with AI tools for real-time responses.

Use Case: AI-driven chatbots that incorporate both storytelling and complex backend workflows.

Sample Code:

story_event "hero_arrives" triggers fetch_data("weather"); response = "The hero enters amidst a storm: {weather}.";

Morph

Purpose: Acts as a meta-compiler, translating any language in the Jest ecosystem into optimized, platform-specific binaries.

Key Features:

Universal compatibility across operating systems and architectures.

Performance tuning during compilation.

Use Case: Porting a Jest-based application to embedded systems or gaming consoles.

Sample Code:

input: Facet script; target_platform: "PS7"; compile_to_binary();

Thread

Purpose: Combines Cryptic's security features with Harmony's reactive architecture to create secure, interactive user interfaces.

Key Features:

Secure data binding for fintech or healthcare applications.

Integration with blockchain for smart contracts.

Use Case: Decentralized finance (DeFi) apps with intuitive, safe user interfaces.

Sample Code:

bind secure_input("account_number") to blockchain_check("balance"); render UI_component(balance_display);

Canvas

Purpose: Fuses Facet's generative design tools with Pantomime's gesture-based coding for AR/VR art creation.

Key Features:

Real-time 3D design with hand gestures.

Multi-modal export to AR/VR platforms or 3D printers.

Use Case: Collaborative VR environments for designers and architects.

Sample Code:

gesture: "draw_circle" → create_3D_shape("sphere"); gesture: "scale_up" → modify_shape("sphere", scale: 2x); render(scene);

Deep Dive into Main Languages

Jest

Philosophy: A playful, expressive scripting language with versatile syntax tailored for humor, experimentation, and creativity.

Core Application: Writing scripts that blend functional programming with a whimsical, human-readable style.

Pantomime

Expanded Features: Includes AI-driven gesture recognition for predictive modeling and natural motion capture.

Advanced Use: Developing AR apps for rehabilitation therapy where exercises are coded as gestures.

Facet

Advanced Use: Procedural generation in games, defining terrains, weather systems, and NPC behaviors with artistic flair.

Quip

Advanced Features: Integrates pre-trained language models for nuanced, character-driven dialogue trees.

Advanced Use: Creating adaptive narratives in games where user decisions alter the story arc.

Cryptic

Advanced Features: Quantum-safe algorithms and AI-enhanced key generation for unbreakable security.

Advanced Use: Designing multi-layered blockchain ecosystems with Cryptic’s high-level abstractions.

Harmony

Advanced Features: Adaptive UIs that respond to user emotion, tracked via AI-enhanced cameras.

Advanced Use: Apps for mental health, where interfaces adjust to user stress levels.

Proposed New Bridge Languages

Chord

Bridges Harmony and Facet for designing interactive music-based visual art.

Use Case: Music videos where the visuals respond to real-time sound input.

Path

Links Cryptic and Canvas for secure AR/VR environments.

Use Case: Virtual meetings in secure, customized 3D spaces.

Fable

Connects Quip and Pantomime for storytelling via interactive gestures.

Use Case: VR education apps where lessons are taught through immersive narratives.

Would you like a specific implementation plan for any of these languages or applications?

[ruhua-langblr]

why is memrise not a good language learning app? sorry if it sounds rude, only a genuine question. you said that you would explain in another post (talking abt the "duolingo sucks" post tags btw) and i didnt see anything abt it :(

Not rude at all! I addressed it a little bit in this ask, but I never did fully elaborate.

The short version is that the problems with Duolingo (cutting community features and shifting more on AI) are also happening with Memrise.

Longer version is that one of the best features of Memrise imho was the community courses. Especially since Quizlet has monetized many features, it seemed to fill that niche very well. The base courses used real audio and video, which is a big upgrade from DL. Along with the removal of community courses, the forums were also removed. This disconnects users from not just each other, but also from having a public method to address the company. I found the official Memrise explanations for these decisions to be unsatisfying. Fortunately for many users, someone in the Memrise community has been uploading community courses to a new site—mylittlewordland! No app atm, and very bare bones, but still functional! Definitely worth checking out.

I created that post as a way to give people easy alternatives to switch to, and while the main courses of Memrise are better than DL, I feel that it would become yet another dead end of corporate greed. I wouldn't be surprised if any of the apps I did recommend also eventually go down this path—some are in the early stages for sure. Ultimately, I decided to recommend what seemed like the easiest alternatives to switch to as people are hesitant to make changes to something that has become a part of their routine.

I want to make another post of what I think are the most helpful resources for language learning, but it will be not be a list of easy gamified 5-minute lessons. I don't fault anyone for wanting to learn that way—not everyone is serious about wanting to achieve fluency and that's fine. However, I think there should be a discussion about how limited and limiting the "app experience" is.

[smokedoutcoldstar]

"I'm broke and have no time / energy to spare for volunteering / organizing. How do I help?"

Have you ever wanted to learn a new language? Do you know a second language but have grown rusty from disuse? Guess what, non-English languages are an act of resistance. This is the perfect time to start learning or brushing up on any languages you know that maga idiots hate :) Language learning resources can be found via gamified apps (check reviews, free ones exist), flashcard apps (Anki is my rec), YouTube video lessons, resources of many types via your local library (don't be afraid to make requests! Requests are good!), and on many langblr (language tumblr) blogs.

Learning a whole new language sounds too daunting? Encourage the bilinguals around you to speak anything-but-English and help keep non-English welcome by learning the basic common greetings in their home language(s) (Hello (informal and formal), Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Evening, Good Night, Bye-bye (as opposed to Goodbye / the formal, long-term absence goodbye), and See You Later)

Want language learning that is easy to practice? Learn through music! Explore the music of artists who don't sing in English. As you learn the lyrics and sing along, your brain will remember individual words. Plus you get more music to listen to. Same goes for television / movies. Throw the subtitles on, have something new to enjoy, remind yourself there are more similarities between your culture and other cultures than differences. And the complexity of your own culture is far deeper than first realized.

Does this seem silly? So small it could not be even remotely helpful? Please reconsider, through this small anecdote from my work:

A new student started halfway through the year. She was a Ukrainian immigrant, due to the timing of her arrival, possibly a refugee. She did not know any English. There was no one in her class who spoke her language. I learned to say привіт (Hello) and every time i saw her, i would say привіт to her. Through the year, and into the following schoolyear, she slowly learned English. And then, she moved. Before she moved, she thanked me for speaking Ukrainian to her. I asked her why. It was only one word. We did not have conversations. I did not even ask How Are You?. And she told me this: You used my language. It made me feel welcomed here.

This is a sentiment I have heard from many of my students since then. "It made me feel like my country is okay" "It made me feel safe" "It made me feel like I could be American and [home ethnicity] (in this case, it was Syrian)" "It made me less nervous about my English" "It made me feel like I belonged" "It made me happy".

"You used my language. It made me feel welcomed here."

Learning a new language will always be worth the effort. ♥

[tchaikovskaya]

have you actually learned anything meaningful from duolingo? im tempted to try it but i get the sense its so gamified that you actually learn and retain very little

it is what you want it to be. it's a game if you treat it that way. and there's nothing wrong with treating it that way. learning a language even at a super basic level takes effort and dedication, it's up to you to challenge yourself. duolingo can be a great tool for that, but it's just that, a tool. i used it to study czech, i had a notebook where i wrote down new vocab, grammar notes, and every exercise i got wrong and why. i also turned off the word bank (by default there are these little word tiles that you tap to enter an answer, which is good for recognizing the meaning of the words but bad for actively recalling them and terrible for learning grammar in context).

imho people ask way too much of duolingo or have very unrealistic expectations. just absentmindedly playing on an app for 10 minutes a day will not magically Teach you a language, you have to take the initiative to study the material. the gamification can be an extrinsic motivator but if you're just playing it as a game (again, if so, nothing wrong with that tbh) and concerned with xp and trophies and streaks and that's it, no you won't truly learn all that much.