AI Innovations in Language Learning: The Rise of Language Buddy
This year, the well-regarded language learning application, Duolingo, faced intense public scrutiny regarding its adoption of artificial intelligence, amid escalating concerns surrounding potential workforce displacement. Yet, what if AI holds untapped potential for language acquisition?
In pursuit of answers, Arizona State University’s Innovation Challenge emerged, showcasing an innovative AI tool designed specifically for language learners. This initiative resulted from a collaboration with OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, and encouraged faculty to explore diverse applications of AI technology.
Thus, the inception of Language Buddy occurred. Spearheaded by former Assistant Teaching Professor Christiane Reves and her team, this AI-driven chatbot harnesses generative AI, enabling students to engage in conversations tailored to their current proficiency levels.
Kristin Elwood, the director of digital initiatives and instructional design at the School of International Letters and Cultures, plays a pivotal role in overseeing the project’s implementation across German, French, and Spanish curricula.
“A significant void exists in the online language realm, a challenge we’ve grappled with extensively,” Elwood remarked. “In traditional settings, learners regularly engage in conversation practice, whether through games, small groups, or one-on-one interactions. These environments compel students to interact with the language in real time—an indispensable component of language mastery. However, replicating this in online courses, which are often asynchronous, proves to be daunting.”
In the summer of 2024, Language Buddy debuted in an online section of German 101, where 30% of participants opted to experiment with the technology. Students accessed Language Buddy via ASU’s secure workspace and utilized the audio functionality to initiate discussions with the chatbot.
Post-course feedback revealed that 88% of students expressed interest in utilizing the tool for future assignments, even if they had not engaged with it at the time. Participants enjoyed the freedom to practice at their convenience, free from the apprehension of making mistakes.
“Our aim is to encourage continual conversation in the target language without undue concern for accuracy—this will develop through practice,” Elwood explained. “AI provides a non-judgmental environment, empowering students to feel comfortable making errors.”
Currently, in partnership with EdPlus and Enterprise Technology, Language Buddy is evolving into a more robust framework, aiming for seamless integration into Canvas, the university’s primary course management system. Plans are underway for the chatbot to feature an avatar that complements assignments and may also offer corrective feedback and grading insights to instructors.
Concerns surrounding accuracy are still being meticulously addressed—issues that frequently arise with novel AI applications. The chatbot has encountered challenges, particularly when switching languages mid-sentence. Such discrepancies are not uncommon in generative platforms, as evidenced by instances with Google Translate, which often grapples with grammatical inaccuracies.
“We’ve noticed instances where Language Buddy appropriately begins at a novice level—using correct vocabulary and structures—but then abruptly escalates to advanced discourse,” Elwood noted. “It sometimes delves into high-level concepts that students are simply unprepared to comprehend.”
Since its launch, faculty members have embarked on a mission to “break” the program, simulating student interactions in various languages, including French, German, and Spanish. This initiative enables them to identify weaknesses and inform areas requiring enhancement in the AI’s training.
The rise of AI has ignited discussions concerning academic integrity. Much like with Google Translate, educators have devised methods to detect when students engage in copy-pasting. At The College, strategies are being crafted to mitigate inappropriate AI use by redesigning curricula and rethinking pedagogical objectives.
“We are gradually shifting our focus from merely catching students in acts of dishonesty to fostering an understanding of how to transparently acknowledge AI assistance—be it in outlining or information gathering,” Elwood articulated. “The emphasis may soon move toward demonstrating critical thought underpinning written work. Students likely will be expected to communicate fluently while justifying their assertions.”
Looking ahead, a revamped pilot version of the chatbot is slated for deployment in the upcoming Spanish 101 course this fall. The Language Buddy team will systematically collect student feedback and assessment data throughout the academic year.
Elwood underscores that Language Buddy is intended to augment, rather than supplant, direct instructor engagement. The goal is to enhance student proficiency and retention.
“Our aim is to allow students to immerse themselves in language and culture authentically, a feat that has been challenging in online education. Ultimately, we aspire to provide an integrated learning experience, replete with opportunities to engage with a plethora of real-time scenarios,” Elwood concluded. “While virtual interaction with Language Buddy cannot replace real-world engagement, it holds the promise of bridging the existing gap.”
Source link: News.asu.edu.
