Exploring the Impact of AI in Language Learning

Gone are the days of learning from phrasebooks and filling in worksheets for homework. Now students have access to a wide range of AI tools to help them practise their language skills.

If you want to improve in English quickly, you may have checked out some AI apps. But you may be unsure which ones to use or whether it’s best to just stick to your English classes.

In our blog, we’ll discuss the rise of AI in language learning and what it means for learners like you. Explore the impact this technology is having inside and outside the classroom and how you can make the most of it.

The impact of AI in language learning

AI (short for artificial intelligence) isn’t a new invention as it’s been around in some form since the 1950s. However, it hasn’t had a significant impact on language learning until recently. In the past ten years, there have been a series of breakthroughs that enabled software to generate ideas, analyse complex patterns and learn autonomously.

Now it’s possible to have in-depth conversations with AI to practise language skills and ask questions about grammar and vocabulary. The software can analyse what you’re saying and provide detailed feedback. It can also learn from the interaction and adapt what it says and does to your needs.

As a result, many students are turning to AI language learning apps and teachers are using more and more of these tools in lessons. We’re becoming less reliant on traditional methods like textbooks and worksheets as we explore all the opportunities. Some may wonder: do we need language lessons and teachers at all?

How to use AI in language learning

There’s no need to worry about the machines taking over. Experts agree that AI won’t and shouldn’t replace teachers and traditional methods. Instead, it’s best to use the different tools to complement your classes.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular apps you can try:

✔ Chatbots: No doubt you’ve heard of ChatGPT and similar apps. Developers trained this software on large amounts of data so it can answer most questions. You can do anything from having a conversation and translating text to asking it to correct your homework.

✔ Language reactors: Google Chrome has an extension that offers subtitles, translations and examples while you’re watching videos. You can get extra support while you’re watching TV and films without having to pause all the time.

✔ Virtual tutors: Apps can now analyse your speech or text and assess your English language ability. They can then create exercises or start conversations based on your level. Elsa Speak is a good example of this.

✔ Translator tools: In the past, these tools weren’t good at recognising idioms and cultural references so they’d translate word for word. Now they can tell you the meaning of thousands of unique expressions from all over the English-speaking world.

✔ Grammar checkers: Although grammar checkers aren’t new, AI has given them a major upgrade. You can get explanations about mistakes and suggestions on how to improve sentences.

✔ Language learning apps: Many apps use games to help you learn faster. Now they can adapt the difficulty to your level and unlock paths based on what you need to learn or practice.

The benefits of AI for language students

Many people are suspicious of new technology, especially when it promises great things. AI may seem even more alarming because of all the sci-fi films where it turns evil.

Experts generally agree that AI has many benefits for language learners. The biggest pro is that you can receive personalised, one-on-one practice even if you can’t afford a private tutor. AI can give you advice on the specific grammar or vocabulary you’re learning rather than the general language.

AI is also available around the clock. You can learn when it suits you rather than scheduling lessons or waiting until your tutor is free.

Many learners find AI more fun and engaging than learning languages the traditional way. It’s hard to predict what chatbots and virtual tutors will say which makes them more interesting. If you’re feeling in a playful mood, you can get them to say all kinds of strange and amusing things.

The limits of AI in language learning

Although AI is great for learning languages, it can’t replace people. You need to talk and listen to real humans as well to become fluent in English.

One major problem is that language is vast, complex and constantly changing. AI often makes mistakes or uses outdated expressions. Users notice it often has difficulty with grammar structures like the passive and subject-verb agreement.

Another issue is that AI can be biassed and represent different cultures or languages unfairly. You may get a false impression of what certain groups of people are like. If you don’t realise this, you could accidentally offend someone.

Some may become too dependent on AI as well. And after all, isn’t the point of learning a language to communicate more effectively with other people?

Conclusion

Like many things in life, the trick to AI in language learning is getting the balance right. You can explore the different tools and use them in your studies, but you still need a teacher.

And guess what? Teachers often know how to get the most out of AI and can show you which apps and features to try. Why not ask them which tools they’d recommend for your specific needs and learning style?

Oxford House can help you get the right blend of AI and traditional techniques. Find the class to fit your needs.

Glossary for Language Learners

Find the following words in the article and then write down any new ones you didn’t know.

Stick to (pv): to follow something closely without changing it.

Autonomously (adv): acting independently.

Interaction (n): when you communicate or engage with others.

Take over (pv): to take control of something.

Word for word (id): exactly as written or spoken with no deep interpretation.

Upgrade (v): to improve something by adding more features or abilities.

Unlock (v): to access a new feature.

Personalised (adj): when something meets a person’s unique needs or preferences.

Around the clock (id): when something is continuously available all day, every day.

Vast (adj): very large.

Biassed (adj): when a person or thing is more likely to adopt a specific attitude, opinion or outcome.

Key

pv = phrasal verb

adv = adverb

n = noun

id = idiom

adj = adjective

v = verb