AI for language learning: benefits, tips and tools

AI to benefit all language learners  

The use of AI in education is growing daily, and language learning is one of the areas of focus because of its predisposition to benefit from this technology. 

Let’s dive into an overview of the topic, exploring how artificial intelligence revolutionized language learning, its multiple benefits for all learners, some language learning app recommendations, and a few tips on its implementation in the classroom.

The impact of AI on language learning 

Only a few know that language learning is one of the areas AI is most likely to have the greatest impact on in the upcoming years. Covering an ever-increasing share of the global education market, AI technology significantly benefits learners approaching a new language or improving their native one. 

But how do language learning AI-based tools work? They use machine learning algorithms to analyze student performance and provide feedback accordingly. Nonetheless, teachers can use them as well to perfect their approach in agreement with the learner’s needs. 

Although this may appear as a complete revolution in education, the use of AI follows a personalisation trend in learning that has gained further and further popularity over the past few years. Indeed, within the field, there is a growing awareness of the specific circumstances influencing the learning process and how they vary depending on the learner. 

What are the benefits of AI-based language learning?

AI-powered language learning has many benefits¹, going from practical applications to ethical implications.  

Educators know that language learning has four focus areas: speech, writing, listening, and reading. Mastering all of these is essential for comprehending a language to its core. However, because the skills connected to language learning are so diversified, most learners need to follow an individual approach.  

AI-based learning tools are game-changers when it comes to personalizing the learning experience as they gather data about the learner to identify their subjective improvement areas. Personalisation is not only valuable to speed up the language learning process and improve its efficacy, but it also has serious implications in terms of equitable accessibility to education. 

In fact, one of the many advantages of individualized learning is opening education to all learners, regardless of their specific skills and difficulties. For instance, in special education or with students who speak foreign languages, AI language learning tools can support teachers in giving students complete and independent access to the aid they need. 

The best AI tools and apps for language learning

Now that we covered all the advantages of introducing AI-powered language learning in the classroom, here are the most effective language learning platforms according to the web².

Duolingo

The most popular among the language learning chatbots, Duolingo uses an algorithm that is able to perceive the context of the conversation with the user, tailoring each response uniquely. 

With Duolingo, users can chat in more than 23 languages, making it one of the most used apps to learn a new language. 

Rosetta Stone 

Similarly to Duolingo, this app covers more than 25 languages and can be used on any device online and offline. Thanks to augmented reality and its translation features, Rosetta Stone can teach users in real-time.

Memrise

This app is a chatbot, but it also has some engaging and participatory features that help make language learning more fun. Users can upload their own content, such as a picture of an object, and the app will be able to provide its name in the desired language. This way, users can participate in the generative evolution of the platform while perfecting their language skills. 

Babbel 

It is one of the few language-learning apps that use speech recognition technology to help users work on their speaking skills with particular attention to real-life language. Users can benefit from lessons crafted by language experts and voiced by native speakers and engage in interactive dialogues.   

Tips to introduce AI in traditional language learning

Do not be mistaken, AI is not advanced to the point it can substitute educators but it is a valid support tool in language learning³.

The best solution to introduce AI in the classroom is to use it as a complementary tool to traditional teaching. 

In the classroom, AI-powered language learning can help educators design assignments tailored to each student to reinforce the topics discussed during class and provide feedback structured on individual goals and abilities. 

Furthermore, students can use language learning platforms outside the school to practice when teachers are not available. This option can benefit students with learning disabilities in particular but also every student who needs the extra time to get comfortable with a subject in order to achieve the best results. 

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Sources: 

1. TalkPal. “The Impact of AI on Language Learning and Teaching.”
2. Michael-Ross. “7 of the Best Language-Learning Chatbot Apps.” Blog.vsoftconsulting.com
3. Knight, Carolyn. “Using AI for Personalized Language Learning: A Comprehensive Guide.” WordTap