How Will Emerging AI Technologies Affect Language Learning

 

The evolution of technology often leads to changes in how we communicate. Over the past 50 years, we have witnessed significant transformations in communication methods. These changes have also had a profound impact on language learning. As we explore the potential of emerging AI technologies, it becomes apparent that they may usher in the next wave of communication and language learning changes. Let's delve into these technologies and the transformative effects they might bring.

Utilizing AI Technologies for Language Learning

The Interplay Between Technology and Language Learning

Before we envision the future, let's take a moment to reflect on the present and the journey that brought us here. Language learning used to be predominantly confined to classrooms or private tutoring, limiting access to linguistic education for the privileged few. Some individuals acquired language skills while traveling or being part of the military, but beyond Latin, language learning was primarily considered an intellectual pursuit.

Language books were once the primary mode of studying languages at home, with their existence spanning several centuries. However, the audio-lingual method of learning, developed by the US Army in response to World War II's communication demands, revolutionized language education. Home recordings became feasible, and language learning records and later tapes gained popularity as effective tools for language acquisition. Often, these recordings were accompanied by books to provide a more comprehensive language learning experience.

The advent of home computers brought yet another major shift in language learning. Programs combined the approaches used in previous recordings with interactive elements, a natural progression from the printed books of the past. With advancing technology, more immersive language programs emerged, revolutionizing language learning methods. Learning languages from the comfort of home had finally become a fully realized option.

Smartphones have introduced another significant change by liberating language learning from desktops and laptops. Learners can now acquire language skills anywhere and anytime. Language learning apps have become incredibly popular, either as standalone tools or as supplements to classroom instruction. The range of learning styles offered by these apps has broadened, encompassing gamified apps with short and quick lessons as well as more comprehensive language learning apps like Encore!!!

Today, AI is poised to make an impact in various domains, including language learning. Let's explore how current technologies can benefit language learners and make some predictions about the future.

Language Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence has become a ubiquitous term, capturing widespread attention. The emergence of ChatGPT has been a major catalyst for this interest. In a previous article, we examined the potential of AI chatbots like ChatGPT in combination with Encore!!!, while also considering their pros and cons.

To delve deeper into this topic, OpenAI developed ChatGPT, an AI chatbot trained through a combination of supervised learning and transfer learning. Transfer learning allows the chatbot to leverage solutions from one problem to solve others. User data is also used to refine ChatGPT's training.

Language learning and artificial intelligence

ChatGPT is just one example of the artificial intelligence technologies being developed. Several companies are working on similar technologies, while others are exploring entirely different approaches. These technologies have the potential to reshape our understanding of language learning. Let's explore the possibilities.

Learning from ChatGPT

One valuable aspect of studying ChatGPT is gaining insights into the learning process. Researchers have discovered parallels between how ChatGPT learns and how children acquire language, particularly in terms of linguistic experience. These findings challenge long-standing beliefs about the importance of grammar in language learning. The key takeaway is that practical exposure to a language is generally more critical than learning grammar rules.

As we continue to utilize this tool, we can further uncover how the model learns and compare it to human learning. This knowledge can help us develop more effective models of language learning. Additionally, it complements language learning apps like Encore!!!, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Beyond GPT-3

Chat

GPT is based on GPT-3, a language processing model that represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, GPT-2. In another article, we explored the limitations of ChatGPT's current model. However, this technology is designed to learn from its mistakes. The issues encountered with the current model will be fine-tuned in subsequent iterations, and we can expect a substantial upgrade in the form of GPT-4, potentially resulting in a consistently reliable model.

Exploring Different Models

GPT is not the sole model under development. Meta is working on LLaMa, while Google is developing Bard. Numerous companies across the tech industry are pursuing their own models. These competing models will learn from each other's shortcomings, and one of them may eventually become the ideal choice for language learning.

One example of future model development is Duolingo's use of an AI model called Birdbrain. Designed to personalize users' language learning experience, this type of modeling holds significant potential for language learning, akin to having a teacher or tutor.

The Future of AI Translation

AI translation has made remarkable progress in a relatively short period. Previously, the tools were often unreliable, producing inaccurate translations. However, translations are becoming increasingly accurate, with even smartphones equipped to perform real-time audio and visual translations.

The future of this technology appears promising. Advancements such as Augmented Reality glasses could enable a world where signs are instantaneously translated, and spoken words are directly translated into our ears. While some may view this as a reason to forego learning a language, others recognize its potential for enhancing language learning. Real-time feedback on language acquisition or the ability to immerse oneself in a language by translating the surrounding environment opens up enormous possibilities.

Read our blog for more information on this topic.