Self-Directed Language Learning and Information Behavior in Leisure Time: An International Comparative Study of Duolingo Use Among Iranian and Canadian EFL Learners

This international study explores the use of Duolingo, an AI-supported language learning application, as a medium for self-directed English acquisition during leisure time across culturally distinct contexts. Building on Hartel's (۲۰۰۶, ۲۰۱۶) work on information behavior in serious leisure and the iSquare visual protocol (Hartel et al., ۲۰۱۷), this research examines how learners in Iran and Canada engage with AI-powered tools to experience language learning as an informal, meaningful, and emotionally rewarding activity. A mixed-methods design was employed: ۶۰ randomly selected participants (۳۰ from each country) completed a structured survey, and ۱۰ volunteers (۵ per country) participated in draw-and-write activities and semi-structured interviews. The study involved two comparative groups of participants: ۳۰ Iranian and ۳۰ Canadian Duolingo users, all intermediate-level English learners. While the Iranian group fits the traditional definition of EFL learners, the Canadian group consisted of non-native English speakers such as immigrants, international students, and bilingual users engaging in English learning during their leisure time. Although no intervention was introduced, the comparison across cultural contexts allowed for identifying potential differences in leisure-time engagement, motivational drivers, and perceived learning outcomes. Participants were randomly selected from public online communities and invited to complete the same set of survey questions and visual activities. Findings indicate that Duolingo's gamified and adaptive features facilitate structured engagement during free time, supporting language development through autonomous, emotionally satisfying experiences. This paper contributes to our understanding of AI-enhanced informal learning, cross-cultural information practices, and the role of mobile technologies in digital leisure.

کلیدواژه ها:

Self-Directed Learning ، Serious Leisure ، Information Behavior ، Duolingo ، AI in Education ، Leisure-Time Learning