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Over the past several years, AI has begun to redefine numerous industries. When it was unveiled to the public in 2022, generative AI was met with heavy resistance and skepticism from most consumers. It was a tool capable of unprecedented technological feats, but no one knew how to utilize it. That is, until big businesses discovered just how invaluable its services were.
Before long, numerous institutions incorporated AI into their overarching business models, as it could consume vast quantities of data and respond to user prompts with relevant information in minutes. As such, much of the busy work that had once been the bane of human workers’ days was suddenly being completed by AI in a fraction of the time, at a fraction of the cost.
As a result, AI’s use amongst businesses and consumers alike has seen a substantial increase in recent years, notably helping to redefine education not just in schools but also at home for adults. One of the most notable recent developments is the newly unveiled Apple Live Translation feature, which leverages the brand’s technology to accelerate language learning through AI. However, this begs the question: can AI replace traditional language learning?
The Value of Human-Centered Pedagogy
Learning a language is not something that can be shotgunned over the course of a few hours. Instead, it is a painstaking, long-term process that requires dedication and discipline. For years, structured, scaffolded learning has needed to stay focused on the intended learner. It is not enough to rotely memorize terms; to know a language, you must understand its functions and why.
This is one of the vast differences between translation tools and active language practice. Translation tools are less actual educational tools and more of a language aid. If you are using translator tools, you are invested in the conversation you are currently having, not necessarily actually learning the language as you’re talking. By contrast, active language practice aims to teach you the language over an extended period, enabling you to retain the information effectively.
How AI Enhances (Not Replaces) Learning
However, this is not to say that AI does not have immense benefits in education, particularly in personalization, content delivery, and real-time feedback. AI has demonstrated its ability to reduce cognitive load and anxiety substantially through safe practice environments. In these ways, it can be a valuable learning aid, especially regarding large topics such as a new language.
Real-World Application: AI as a Speaking Confidence Booster
Babbel Speak is an example of AI supporting pedagogy. Babbel is an established name in the language-learning sector, having existed for nearly two decades and continuing to offer 14 languages to over 25 million learners, with a strong focus on pedagogy and content. Babbel Speak integrates AI with proven teaching methods to reduce speaking anxiety through scaffolded scenarios, real-time feedback, and a safe practice environment.
Babbel’s embracing of AI could lead to continued personalization, habit-building, and multimodal content innovations. The new technology could enhance learner goals, progress tracking, and real-world confidence.
As Sophie Vignoles, the Head of Learning Content at Babbel, says, “AI is not replacing pedagogy. This is how you work together. So it’s very much at Babbel human-centered.”
Final Thoughts
While AI enhances accessibility and experience, it thrives most when combined with educational expertise. Traditional language learning isn’t obsolete; it’s evolving. And with AI as an aid, it is doing so faster and more efficiently than ever.
