Cognitive benefits of language learning: Can AI help us learn?

Learning a new language has long been associated with opening new doors to understanding diverse cultures and connecting with people worldwide. But does language learning go beyond mere communication skills? Can it have a positive impact on cognitive abilities such as reasoning, memory, creativity, and empathy? This article delves into the cognitive benefits of language learning and explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionise language acquisition, offering a simpler and more personalised approach for learners.

Cognitive benefits of language learning

Language learning has been the subject of various academic studies, seeking to understand its effects on cognition. Here, we explore some key findings:

Cognitive performance

Research shows a correlation between bilingualism and cognitive flexibility, which reflects the ability to switch between languages. While the evidence on the relationship between language learning and behavioral control is complex and inconsistent, immersive language learning appears to enhance attention and mental alertness.

Empathy and global mindset

Language learners often report feeling like a "different person" when speaking their second language, leading to increased empathy and a more global mindset. This report from Bethel University talks of a study where “Van den Bedem et al. (2019) found that the development of empathic skills helped students obtain more positive relationships and maintain positive interactions with peers.” While the causal relationship is not clear, language learning seems to promote openness to other cultures and diversity. 

Creative language use

Learning a second language can boost creative language use, including fluency, originality, and flexibility, in one's first language. This improvement may result from the cognitive practices involved in language switching and the rigorous study required for language learning.

Academic performance

Studies suggest a positive impact of language learning on academic achievement. Learning a second language can benefit students across various subjects, including performance in their native language, English language learning, literacy, mathematics, and science. It is particularly advantageous for dual language learners, who catch up and excel after immersion in language learning.

Cognitive reserve and ageing

Language learning programs for older populations hold promise in building cognitive reserve to counter cognitive decline in later years. Engaging in language learning activates brain networks that overlap with regions vulnerable to aging. However, the link between bilingualism and the prevention of dementia is a subject of ongoing research.

AI in Language Learning: Transforming the process

Artificial intelligence is permeating various aspects of our lives, and language learning is no exception. By harnessing the power of AI, language learning can be personalised, efficient, and engaging. Let's explore some ways AI is revolutionising language acquisition:

Personalisation and immediate feedback

AI algorithms can tailor language learning experiences to each learner's needs, reducing time, cost, and frustration associated with traditional courses. AI-powered language learning platforms can grade exams, analyse writings, and provide immediate feedback to students, enabling them to address mistakes and improve performance.

Deeper involvement and engagement

With AI, learners can study at their own pace, set personalised goals, and follow a customised curriculum. AI can develop captivating games, quizzes, and activities that align with students' interests, enhancing their engagement and involvement in the learning process.

Language bots

AI-powered language learning chatbots provide personalised responses and evaluations, allowing learners to practice speaking without fear of judgment and with tailored guidance and feedback just for them. This enhances their own, personal experience and enables them to improve on an individual basis. These bots offer conversational practice, vocabulary enhancement, and grammar instruction, fostering a stress-free learning environment.

Machine translation as a teaching technique

Neural machine translation is enhancing the integration of machine translation into language learning. Machine Translation (using computer systems to adapt and learn with the help of statistics and algorithms to draw patterns in data, rather than via explicit instructions) as a Bad Model (where incorrect or poor predictions have been made) is a teaching technique where students discover and correct errors in machine-translated content, aiding their comprehension, sentence formation, and vocabulary.

No fear of failure

AI removes the fear of failure often associated with traditional language learning. As fundamentally important as language educators remain, with AI, learners can be assessed without judgment or embarrassment, promoting a positive and supportive learning experience. This testimonial highlights how Busuu helps to reduce this fear of failure.

Advantages of AI in Language Learning

The benefits of AI-powered language learning are significant and include:

• Personalised learning experiences
• Immediate and constructive feedback
• Flexibility in learning time and location
• Engaging and interactive learning activities
• Reduced fear of failure
• Enhanced language proficiency and comprehension

Takeaways

Language learning not only empowers individuals to communicate across cultures but also offers cognitive benefits that boost creativity, empathy, and academic performance. With the integration of AI into language learning, the process becomes personalised, efficient, and engaging. 

As AI continues to evolve, language learning can become an enriching journey, empowering learners to embrace linguistic diversity and cognitive growth. If this article has piqued your interest, download our free eBook “How to Stay Motivated when Learning a Language and which AI tools can help your Employees” to investigate further.

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