Ep. 211: When ‘Good’ Apps Go Bad

Often, apps begin with noble intentions of “connection” or “education.” While they promise to be different, they inevitably resort to classic tactics for maximum engagement: streaks, coins, leaderboards, FOMO, and notifications. In this episode, Kelly uncovers this trend using Duolingo and Zigazoo as examples. This trend of app devolution is important for parents to understand. You may not be able to keep track of every app update, but you know your child, and you can recognize when something has changed.

Articles referenced:

Brave Parenting Guide to Duolingo
Brave Parenting Guide to Zigazoo
TED Talk: How to Make Learning as Addictive as Social Media
How Machine Learning Supercharged Our Revenue by Millions (Duolingo Blog)

Scripture referenced:

1 Thes 5:4-6
1 Thes 5:19-21
1 Peter 5:8
Matt 18:8-9

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