How Artificial Intelligence Will Change Language Learning Forever

Opportunities and Challenges of AI in Language Learning

ChatGPT… I’m sure you’ve heard of it. It has taken the world by storm gaining 100 million users in just 2 months. If you haven’t, ChatGPT is a conversational AI language model developed by OpenAI that can engage in natural language conversations with humans. It is trained on vast amounts of data using deep learning techniques to understand and generate human-like responses on a wide range of topics. Those past 2 sentences were created by the AI itself, which makes my job a bit easier. This new innovation has enabled the world to apply artificial intelligence to a plethora of subject areas and in this article, we’ll be diving deeper into language learning.

Language learning is a crucial part of education. Knowing another language can open up a world of opportunities for individuals, from expanding job prospects to enhancing communication with people from different backgrounds. In recent years, technology has played a significant role in language learning, allowing learners to access online resources and interactive tools. However, the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in language learning technology has the potential to revolutionize the way people learn languages.

The current state of language learning in education technology is marked by the use of traditional methods such as textbooks and teacher-led instruction. The introduction of technology has allowed for more interactive and engaging experiences through the use of multimedia resources, online courses, and mobile applications. However, there are limitations to the current technology, such as the lack of personalized learning experiences, limited feedback, and the inability to adapt to individual learning styles. These limitations create a need for AI in language learning technology.

AI has the potential to revolutionize language learning in several ways. Firstly, AI-based adaptive learning can create a customized learning experience that adapts to individual needs and learning styles. Secondly, it can provide personalized feedback and assessments that are tailored to each learner's level of proficiency. Thirdly, AI-based conversational agents can create an environment for real-time language practice, simulating natural conversations in a safe and low-stress environment.

Several examples in language learning technology already exist. Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone are just a few examples of popular language learning apps that utilize AI. Duolingo uses it to personalize the user’s experience by creating a path based on individual learning styles and progress. Babbel utilizes AI to analyze user data and provide personalized feedback to learners. Rosetta Stone uses it to create interactive simulations of real-life scenarios for language learners to practice their skills.

While AI in language learning technology has immense potential, there are challenges that must be addressed. Privacy and ethical concerns surrounding the use of AI must be considered, and AI technology must be integrated into the current curriculum in a way that complements traditional teaching methods. Collaboration between educators and technology companies is crucial to ensure that the technology is being used effectively to enhance learning outcomes.

Considering the capabilities of artificial intelligence and ChatGPT we pose the question of whether or not AI will kill traditional language learning. It’s worth a thought, however we believe that traditional teachers aren’t going away anytime soon. Having this new technology will greatly supplement teachers and instructors with the possibility of fully serving as a teacher of someone who is already advanced. Regardless of your skill level, you can still get involved using AI to learn a language. 

If you are interested in utilizing this new and exciting technology to increase your language learning capabilities, here are a couple of prompts/scripts to get you started. We will be diving into learning Spanish with ChatGPT but it supports several other languages. After all, learning a language is much easier when you have a teacher whenever you need them. 

Let’s start!

1) When learning a new language we need to start off with a plan of attack

So as we can see here, a simple yet effective prompt can get us an in depth plan to get started on our language learning journeys. Here is ChatGPT’s high level overview of what the plan consists of.

Next, it gives a more detailed approach when breaking the plan down into months.

Another super helpful thing is that you can ask ChatGPT about the hardest things to learn when it comes to learning Spanish. 

2) Take action

As of now, this software is free to use and I suggest you take advantage of it. Take action now and you will start to see that even though learning a language is no easy task, having ChatGPT as your teacher and conversation partner will make it much more fun and engaging. Below is an example of getting started (it takes only 2 minutes) and learning!

You think you're ready for the quiz? Here it is…

Just in case you wanted the answers.

In conclusion, AI has the potential to revolutionize language learning in education technology. By creating personalized and adaptive learning experiences, providing personalized feedback and assessments, and simulating natural conversations, AI can enhance language learning outcomes for learners. While there are challenges that must be addressed, the future potential of AI in language learning technology is promising. The integration of AI in language learning technology has the potential to enhance language learning outcomes and provide learners with the skills needed to succeed in a globalized world.

We hope you all learned something valuable about how to better use artificial intelligence for language learning. Shameless plug but check out the Hillside Ventures Podcast (available on Apple and Spotify). Thanks for tuning in and we hope you have a great rest of your day!

- Will Quinlan and Shivam Patel