London Tech Week 2023 commenced yesterday and the Prime Minister was in
attendance to speak of the potential AI technology can provide to school
children.
He spoke of the potential for the technology to provide “personalised
learning for each individual”. He suggested the tool was “so
powerful”and compared it to the impact of having a tutor. Education was
one of the public services Mr Sunak was most excited about AI’s
transformation potential.
With this in mind, in today’s interconnected world language skills have
become increasingly vital for effective communication, career
advancement, and cultural exchange.
Whether you aim to learn a new language or improve your existing
linguistic abilities, the rapid advancements in AI and technology offer
unprecedented opportunities to enhance the language learning process.
Amy Pritchett, languages expert at Preply [1], has shared five reasons
why AI and technology is extremely important for language learning, and
how it can be used as a tool to make it easier and more accessible.
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Interactive Learning
“AI-powered language learning platforms offer interactive practice
opportunities that simulate real-world conversations. Through chatbots
and virtual assistants, learners can engage in dialogue, ask questions,
and receive instant responses. These conversational interactions help
develop conversational fluency and build confidence in using the target
language.
“As well as this, AI systems can analyse learner input and provide
immediate feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, allowing
for continuous improvement.
“These gamified methods of learning can make learning a language much
more enjoyable and memorable, and can keep the learning engaged for
longer periods.
“As well as working for adults, the gamified methods are also a great
way to introduce children to language learning, as it is much more
engaging for younger ages.”
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Easier access to materials
“Technology such as the internet and social media has made it easier
than ever for language learners to access materials online such as
articles, videos and podcasts in whatever language they might be
learning.
“In turn, this makes it easier for learners to see and hear real-life
language usage in text and speech.
“This also applies to things such as streaming movies and TV shows.
Streaming platforms such as Netflix have a variety of titles that
originate in foreign languages, where viewers can watch along with
subtitles to pick up the language.”
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Personalisation
“One of the key advantages of AI in language learning is its ability
to deliver personalised experiences. AI-powered platforms can adapt to
individual learning styles, preferences, and proficiency levels.
“Through data analysis and machine learning algorithms, these systems
can identify areas where learners struggle and provide targeted
exercises, resources, and feedback tailored to their needs.
“This personalised approach enhances the effectiveness and efficiency
of language acquisition, as learners receive content and guidance that
aligns precisely with their requirements.
“For example, if somebody is more of a visual learner, they can use
reading materials accessible online. Similarly, if somebody is a better
learner through audio, podcasts or watching television in the language
they’re learning can help.
“This makes language learning much easier for those who might struggle
with certain types of learning, making it more accessible for
everyone.”
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Flexibility
“Online language learning platforms and apps have made it possible for
people to learn a language anytime and anywhere, without the need to
attend a class.
“Gone are the days of going to a certain place at a certain time to
learn a language from a tutor, as classes can now either be done online,
or learners can use an app that aids language learning.
“This flexibility is particularly useful for busy individuals who may
not have the time to attend traditional language classes. It can also
save money, with apps usually having a reasonably priced subscription
model.”
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Connection and Collaboration
“Technology, particularly social media, allows language learners to
connect and collaborate with native speakers from all different parts of
the world.
“This can provide opportunities for collaborative learning, language
exchange, and cultural exchange, enhancing the language learning
experience and providing valuable insights into a certain country’s
culture.
“This not only makes the learning experience a lot more enjoyable, but
also makes it much more genuine and powerful, since communication is
what people do best. It can also mean you can make great friends to help
you learn a language.”
