Duolingo is a free language learning service and app that I wrote about a couple of times in 2012. Just before the end of 2012 Duolingo added Italian to the list of languages that students can learn through the service. Students can now learn Spanish, English, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese through Duolingo.

To learn on Duolingo you read, listen to, and translate words and
phrases. For example if I want to learn Spanish I’ll be shown Spanish
words with translations. I can can hear the words pronounced too. Then
to practice I type and or speak translations. The activities start out
with simple words and phrases. As I become more proficient, Duolingo
gives me more challenging phrases. To help me track my progress Duolingo
awards me point and virtual badges.

Applications for Education
Duolingo could be a good supplement to the in-classroom activities that students complete in your lessons. The free iOS app that Duolingo offers makes it easy for students to study wherever they go.