Jose Mari Almonte is a former English lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in the Sultanate of Oman. He is a blogger, founder and CEO of DECLA Academy. He is also co-founder of Project Joma, a yearly summer volunteer work program to teach English to children and young adults. In this blog, he discusses in details how teachers and students could use Artificial Intelligence(AI) in the ELT classroom and its future in language teaching and learning.
With the significant development in information technology, teaching and learning the English language is undergoing changes never before seen in history. There is no doubt AI is making breakthroughs not just in the fields of transportation and healthcare but education as well. Artificial intelligence, I believe, is poised to transform the way we teach and learn the language in the ELT classroom.
Interaction with the world
AI has the ability to interact with the world that can make teaching more effective and efficient. As a result, it can significantly change teachers’ traditional teaching methods. Machine learning can analyze the data of students and teachers, student progress and generate written reports. Based on the data and information, teachers can bring up desired learning outcomes to improve the quality of education.
Simulation like human thinking
Since AI is an extension of human intelligence, it can simulate and work pretty much like human thinking and reasoning through analysis. Therefore, it has become a breakthrough in improving the quality of English teaching and learning. At present, the opportunity to learn the language in the English classroom is limited to using the language during class hours. It is not easy for students to carry on a conversation in English on a daily basis. However, AI changes the teaching situation and environment tremendously. It provides an interactive learning environment for students on the go using internet devices such as smartphones and tablets.
Learning and teaching becomes more visual with the use of voice, texts and graphics. More importantly, students can communicate with a machine that provides authentic English language environment. Moreover, AI has the ability to correct errors in a real simulation platform. Gone are the days when teachers have to tediously correct every single error.
Customized teaching activities
English teachers can customize individualized teaching activities according to the student's learning styles. With the assistance of AI. learning plans and activities are more personalized addressing each student's weak language areas. AI can communicate and interact with students and bring the language from speakers of English speaking countries. It can also bring their customs and culture to speakers of other languages. Consequently, the application of AI in English teaching enhances the quality of education and learning experience of the students.
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