Learners around the world use AIs to practice new languages
Learners around the world use AIs to practice new languages
Millions of people are embracing the changes that humanity is facing with the rapid advance of Artificial Intelligence. Nonetheless, some other millions of people are confronted by such technological revolution and fear that the solution to many problems will also bring new issues to the world.
While concerns about new challenges persist, one undeniable truth is that AI is shaping our future, and it is bringing us new resources that can support our personal development as long as we know how to make use of them.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
In simple terms, Artificial Intelligence, often abbreviated as AI, refers to computer systems or machines that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as understanding language, making decisions, solving problems, recognizing patterns, and learning from experiences or data.
They are able to gather huge amounts of information and distinctively search for patterns and possible outcomes that will allow them to take decisions about the tasks they are performing.
For instance, in language generation, AI-driven chatbots can process user input and generate elaborate responses using the most-likely words and phrases to create a logical answer to the user’s original prompt.
What chatbots are available to learn or practice a new language?
With the continuous rise of artificial intelligence, it is possible to encounter a variety of systems that allow you to have conversations with an AI in multiple languages. These platforms provide opportunities for language learners to practice and improve their skills.
These are only some of the most notable options that current learners are using: ChatGPT, Replika, Tutor Lily, LangAI, Verbius and Kainene vos Savant. These AI systems replicate the interaction that you would normally have with a human. They are able to offer guidance on spelling, grammar, error correction, and advice, simulating experiences similar to those with native speakers.
What are the pros and cons of the AI learning method?
As with any technology, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider when using AI for language learning. Firstly, we will explain some of the positive aspects that this method can offer:
- Accessibility: AI brings opportunities to learners across the globe, facilitating human-like interactions in any language they would like to learn without having to worry about money or transport. As long as individuals have internet access and an electronic device at their disposal, they can access cost-free AI language learning tools.
- Availability: if you wanted to have a conversation with another person, you would need to arrange a time and day that suits both their schedule and yours. In contrast, AI chatbots are always accessible. Learners can practice at their convenience, regardless of time zones, days or schedules.
- Privacy: when a person is not comfortable speaking a certain language, it can be difficult for them to face a native speaker or colleague to try to practice their skills. Some people might even retrieve themselves from doing so entirely. When using a chatbot, people often find comfort in knowing that no one is able to judge them on the other side of the screen, offering them a space of experimentation, as learners can ask questions without shame or fear.
However, not everything is positive with AI. These are some of the disadvantages that come with this learning method:
- Lack of real-world exposure: while AI chatbots offer knowledge across many different cultures, they lack the same level of understanding that a native speaker can have about their country or language. They can certainly be a great way to start learning vocabulary, but should not be exclusive. Real-life interactions with native speakers are essential to gain deeper insights into a language and its culture.
- Commitment requirements: learning with AI demands discipline, interest, and commitment. Learners must be able to set their own schedules, dedicate sufficient time and be proactively looking out for new things to explore and improve on. Some people might find this challenging and would have better results working with a human tutor.
- Gaps in the learning: as noted above, studying with an AI will require you to be your own personal tutor. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you know exactly what things you should be learning and what pieces of information you might be missing out on. AI chatbots can provide conversations, corrections, and explanations, but they may not offer a structured curriculum unless specifically requested.When using an AI, learners must know what to ask for, and that is a skill in itself that requires an additional learning process.
Conclusion
Technologies exist and are ready for us to use them. The choice to embark on a language-learning journey using AI or other methods is entirely personal. However, it’s crucial for learners to recognise that success will require them to focus, practice and continuously seek new sources of knowledge.
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