Learning a foreign language can be tricky. Although a handful of lucky individuals naturally possess the ability to pick up a new dialect within a short period of time, most of us find the process to be challenging and intensive.
The good news is that online tutors can provide valuable assistance when needed. From understanding the nuances associated with conjugating French verbs to learning the Cyrillic alphabet, there are a wealth of possibilities at our disposal. Learning a language is also less about writing things in a notebook and more about using technology to optimize your time.
We are now only beginning to scratch the surface in regard to what can be accomplished with the help of modern algorithms. For instance, AI can be of great help when learning a foreign language.
AI at a Glance
Defining artificial intelligence within a single sentence can be tricky, as the exact definition will often depend upon the application that it is intended to play. For instance, AI as defined by the European Parliament involves the ability of a machine to display specific abilities that were previously attributed to humans alone. These include:
- Reasoning;
- Logic;
- Planning;
- Creativity.
If you’d ask a computer scientist, they’d tell you something like AI using computers and machines to mimic the problem-solving and decision-making capabilities of the human mind. At any rate, AI-powered software is designed to take in data and develop new perspectives on it, sometimes without the need for any type of human intervention. Some believe that this represents a basic form of self-awareness. These traits could also prove useful when learning a language.
AI in Relation to Learning a Foreign Language
An important benefit of artificial intelligence is that it possesses the ability to provide instantaneous feedback. Therefore, students can learn the results of an examination within seconds. Errors will be corrected as soon as they occur. AI “teachers” can likewise provide a real-time means to address particularly difficult stumbling blocks associated with a specific dialect. As a result, the overall learning curve could be dramatically reduced.
Another advantage of AI in this respect comes in the form of chatbots (sometimes known as “language bots”). Not only can these clever apps be accessed at any time, but students will be less likely to be embarrassed if an error is made. This is certainly not always the case when conversing with a real human. So, individuals may actually be more likely to engage with such algorithms.
Another advantage is the possibility of looking through patterns of learning. An AI could see how you perform in various tests, see what type of challenges you’re struggling with, and focus more on the most beneficial types of exercises.
Will AI Replace Human Tutors?
We can now begin to see why artificial intelligence is slated to play an important role in relation to learning a foreign language. However, this technology is still not able to mimic the organic level of interaction that will be provided by a human being. Tutors can therefore remain confident in the fact that their careers will not be vanishing anytime soon. Still, the benefits of AI are very interesting and this method of virtual learning should enjoy a bright future.
