So, like, learning to figure out what someone said, or say what they want in another language. Sounds a bit similar to translation. Saying it doesn't transfer can be claimed about anything. Talking 1:1 with a tutor isn't talking 1:1 with someone else, but it's a question of how much transfers.
Depends on the context whether it's a good task. Duo seems to aim for low friction and beginner level (A1 ish), high adherence / engagement. It's an app, they can't just say "read this text and think about it", feedback and assessment matter. They ab test like crazy, and have multiple task types, I'm guessing translation works in the real world for their purposes (low friction, app, beginner).
The received wisdom that translation bad comes from the pendulum swinging away from grammar translation.
Depends on the context whether it's a good task. Duo seems to aim for low friction and beginner level (A1 ish), high adherence / engagement. It's an app, they can't just say "read this text and think about it", feedback and assessment matter. They ab test like crazy, and have multiple task types, I'm guessing translation works in the real world for their purposes (low friction, app, beginner).
The received wisdom that translation bad comes from the pendulum swinging away from grammar translation.