Founder: Taylor Nieman
Co-Founders Taylor Nieman (CEO), Shaun Merritt (CTO), and Brandon Dietz (CPO) were always trying to learn new things, but found that they had trouble changing their habits in order to do so. It seemed like there was never enough time to take an online class or go to a workshop in person. They realized that if someone were to build a way of learning that is simply layered on top of what they already did every day (e.g. browse the internet), it would be much more effective. Out of this lightbulb moment, Toucan was born.
Toucan is a free Chrome browser extension designed for anyone who wants to learn a new language (or refresh their studies of a language they already learned), but can't seem to find the time or the motivation to go out of their way to do it. Once installed, Toucan scans website text (in English) and changes some words to the language the user is trying to learn. As the user reads, she can hover her mouse over unknown words to get the English translation. The experience is akin to integrated, online flashcards. Toucan is currently in five languages and is planning to launch more, as well as potentially foray into additional subjects such as history, science, math, or general knowledge. Although it is exclusively in Chrome at the moment, Toucan will be expanding to Safari and Firefox browsers as well.
"Even if you want to go for a walk, you're probably going to end up working, and so while you're working we can help you learn." - Taylor
Sources: dot.LA, TechCrunch, Toucan website