5 Simple Ways AI Can Help You Learn a Language (With Tools)

Do you think you’d be more fluent in your second language if you had a native-speaking teacher with you at all times to guide you?

With AI tools like ChatGPT, you get corrections, new phrases, and improved fluency whenever you need. It's the go-to for language learners seeking convenience and effectiveness. Read our article for a deeper dive into ChatGPT's language learning potential and discover other AI-powered tools for language learning.

Here's a quick overview of the ways that AI can help — and some other tools besides Chat GPT that are using AI technology to help.

1. AI-based chat for conversation practice and correcting mistakes

AI chatbots offer a relaxed environment for practiсing conversations in your target language, without the pressure of classrooms. Some even interact as "AI pen pals" for language learning.

The quality of conversation depends on your input and how you prompt answers. With AI, you can discuss various topics of interest, from job interviews to sports or travel destinations.

You control the conversation, asking for corrections, grammar explanations, and vocabulary suggestions. Research shows chatbots positively impact language skills, catering to different proficiency levels from A1 to C2.

While they can't replace human interaction, AI chatbots like Chat GPT, Replika, ZenoChat, Bard, Mondly, and others are valuable tools for language learners.

2. Generate quizzes and games to engage your brain

Gamifying language learning boosts engagement and interest among learners. AI tools generate quizzes and tests to measure language progress. Specify proficiency level and quiz objectives beforehand. Sample prompt: "Create a B1 Italian quiz on the verb 'andare'."

Extend learning beyond vocabulary to sentence structure and contextual word use.

TOOLS: Chat GPT, Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise, Ling

3. Boost grammar and vocabulary learning in context

AI excels with factual responses but struggles with opinions, beliefs, and emotions. An AI chatbot's typical response clarifies its role: to provide information devoid of personal biases or emotions.

Fortunately, languages follow strict rules, making them easily learnable by machines. AI can effectively replace dictionaries and grammar textbooks for learning grammar and vocabulary.

While AI excels at providing accurate word meanings and verb endings, explanations of language nuances may be less reliable. Some language learning methods overly focus on grammar and vocabulary, neglecting other acquisition techniques.

However, AI tools can be excellent assistants for learning grammar rules and targeted vocabulary. They can also demonstrate how grammatical forms work in specific contexts.

So, not only does AI help with the meanings of words but it can also identify phrases where these words are used.

TOOLS: Chat GPT, Replika, Duolingo, Busuu, Memrise

4. Immerse yourself in video language learning

Video learning, increasingly popular in recent years, offers a wealth of engaging content across various topics. Platforms like YouTube and Netflix serve as dynamic language learning environments, especially with the aid of subtitles in the target language.

There are several tools to help with the language acquisition process, including our unique AI-powered natural language learning tool called LangMagic, enhances this learning experience by providing context-based learning and building vocabulary.

TOOLS: LangMagic (free to download and use)

5. Improve speaking fluency by recording conversations

Improving fluency, particularly for advanced language learners, often poses a challenge without regular practice and correction from native speakers. Hadar Shemesh, a successful English tutor on YouTube, advises recording yourself speaking about topics of interest generated through AI chatbots like ChatGPT. This allows for relaxed practice at your own pace, avoiding tedious topics. Listening to your recordings, possibly with feedback from an online tutor, helps identify areas for improvement in fluency.

TOOLS: ChatGPT, Mondly, etc.

AI should supplement (not replace) language teachers

AI chatbots are not just for language learners. They’re for teachers too. Foreign language tutors can use various AI tools to motivate students, help them learn quicker, develop greater knowledge and fluency of the language and practice more at home.

This is all positive for the learning and teaching experience. Teachers can even use AI to help develop teaching materials — such as conversations around a particular topic or phrase — or even entire lesson plans.

While the language teacher remains important, AI tools can enhance the learning journey, particularly for advanced learners aiming for fluency or native-level proficiency. These tools do much of the "heavy lifting," empowering learners to interact with native speakers and achieve their language goals more efficiently.