5 Benefits of Using New Technology in Language Learning

Even with all the technology involved, language learning is not an easy practice because every person has an individual background and perception of things. It means that we might require an important shift in the use of technology that also focuses on individualism and flexibility to let every person learn according to a specific scope and the content that matches their vision. Starting with the use of interactive sounds and flashcards to video sessions with native speakers, language learners should be able to choose how and what they learn by making the flexible schedule their primary weapon as they overcome grammar, writing, and pronunciation challenges.

5 Benefits of Using New Technology in Language Learning

– Students With Learning Challenges.

The new technology in language learning is becoming more focused on the students that require additional assistance to get the theory and the audiovisual parts down. There are many helpful apps for dyslexic students that help with reading and spelling and solutions for visually-impaired learners. Still, some students also require assistance with their native language, which is where new technology tends to address multilingual environments. However, when your task involves writing an assignment in more than one language and creating an outline for it in English first, approach an expert by sending a ‘help me write my paper for cheap” message. Explain what you find challenging and remember that asking for assistance is only natural!

– An Individual Approach and Flexibility.

The new technology makes it possible to learn based on what you truly need or find useful. It means that if you are only trying to learn German for the automotive industry, the modern language learning apps make it easy to add specific dictionary databases and phrases that will be necessary to help you understand the crucial terms. Since your learning will be custom-tailored to your needs, you won’t have to learn something that won’t inspire you!

– Connecting Theory and Practice.

Language learning these days has gone beyond the usual textbooks or even the flashcards with quizzes and interactive games. The new technology becomes focused on the actual practice that can help use the gained skills right away. Social media, web design, creative activities, online volunteering, and even global competitions are used for language learners. As people talk to each other and share their cultural backgrounds (even if it’s done through an online video session), theoretical knowledge is always tested in practice in a fun and inspiring way.

– Artificial Technology Correcting Foreign Spelling.

When you learn a foreign language, one of the most important challenges is to learn how to spell correctly. If a word has been written wrong, it’s very hard to unlearn as you type, and you do not have some app or a Word processor to correct it for you. Some people just disable this helpful function by default, yet some languages may not be supported. Therefore, when you are dealing with a rare language pair or require the best English to Hebrew translator, it’s always good to talk to a human specialist and make sure that everything is correct, even if you have checked with the spelling correction feature before!

– Speech Recognition Tools.

You might have heard about speech recognition before by using Google Now or asking Siri some questions. Now, solutions like AudioNote or Babbel make it possible to use speech recognition in more than one language. Although these may not be accurate and will ask you to repeat the parts that are unclear, these are quite helpful when you need to translate something that you hear. It also works the other way around since you can talk and check if it translates your speech correctly!

AI-Based Learning Versus Human Presence

There is still no definite answer to this debate since AI-based tools are only meant to be used as supplementary solutions for language learning, not as the total replacement. It is also a reason why it’s still necessary to start the foreign language learning process with a teacher who can outline the main points and check the pronunciation. While an average person will be able to repeat the sentences and phrases via a Skype lesson, the body language, mimics, and emotional constituents of what’s being said make the difference. While it’s debatable whether technology can transfer it all, the necessity of human input should be considered as long as there is a chance.

BIO

Joanne Elliot is a professional linguist with an academic background who loves to explore the ways how language learning can expand one’s creative horizons and writing skills. Starting with writing tips and up to the latest technical analysis, she makes complex things accessible. Follow Joanne to take your learning to another level and remain inspired.