Using AI to build personalised language learning pathways

Educational technology used in a school - image created with AI

In the dynamic landscape of language education, artificial intelligence (AI) has recently emerged as a powerful tool, which is transforming the way languages are learned. As we’ve previously written, tools such as ChatGPT can be of significant benefit for language educators, particularly when creating lesson plans and language learning resources. But the impact of AI on language learning is not just restricted to speeding up content creation.

The use of AI-powered language learning tools also offers a promising approach for educators to explore. Particularly in supporting the development of personalised and highly adaptable learning pathways that cater to the diverse needs and learning styles of individual learners.

This blog post therefore considers why such pathways are important for language learning success, how AI tools can help build them and offers some best practice ideas for their use and implementation in the classroom. Let’s dive in!

 

Why are personalised and adaptable pathways important?

As a first step, let’s look at 4 key reasons why personalised and adaptable learning pathways are essential for language learning success. These are:

  1. Addressing individual needs: Every learner brings unique strengths, weaknesses, and goals to their language learning journey. A personalised pathway best caters to these individual differences, ensuring that every learner receives the most effective and impactful learning experiences.
  2. Enhancing engagement: When learners feel that learning material is tailored to their specific needs, they tend to be more engaged and motivated to continue learning. Personalised pathways can therefore foster a powerful sense of ownership and relevance, keeping learners actively involved in the learning process.
  3. Promoting effective learning: By providing targeted instruction and activities that match learners’ knowledge gaps and pace, educators can accelerate their progress. A focused approach on what they need to know also helps learners master content more quickly and efficiently. 
  4. Supporting diverse learners: Personalised learning pathways play a key role in widening access to language education. Learners from different backgrounds, cultures and language proficiency levels all have the same opportunity to succeed in language learning. And can all be accommodated within the same class or institution.

 

How can AI help?

Despite the benefits outlined above, the creation of such personalised learning pathways is not easy for individual educators to undertake. Quite simply, it can be very difficult and very time-consuming to tailor instruction to the needs of every learner.

Grading, reviewing data and providing prompt feedback to students are also essential to direct their progress. But they are also significant time commitments for staff, often outside of normal school hours.

AI can automate all of these processes, making it easier and quicker for teachers. It can also  free up their time to focus on more tailored, face-to-face instruction. We’ve also identified several other key advantages when using AI tools to create and deliver personalised and adaptable learning pathways:

  • Real-time feedback loops: AI-powered systems can monitor learner progress and provide immediate feedback to learners and their teachers. This real-time information allows teachers to adjust instruction and adapt the learning pathway as needed, ensuring that it remains effective and engaging.
  • Automated tasks: AI can automate routine tasks, such as grading students’ pronunciation and other exercises, providing feedback on grammar and vocabulary, and generating personalised learning content.
  • Data-driven insights: AI can analyse vast amounts of learner data to support teachers. Most importantly, it can help them to intervene early and proactively address any challenges that learners may face, preventing frustration and promoting sustained progress.
  • Scalability: AI-powered systems can quickly scale to support large numbers of learners, making personalised learning a reality for language teaching institutions. This scalability is crucial in today’s classrooms which have to accommodate face-to-face, online and hybrid learning environments.
  • Adaptability: AI-powered platforms can dynamically adjust and adapt based on learners’ progress and feedback. This real-time feedback loop allows for continuous improvement and personalised recommendations, ensuring that the learning experience remains engaging and challenging as learners progress.

 

Considerations for language educators

While AI offers tremendous potential for enhancing language learning, it’s crucial for teachers to acknowledge and address potential challenges in its use. None of the below points should prevent AI’s use in language learning, but it’s important to be fully aware of potential pitfalls. 

It is evident that AI algorithms do need to collect and analyse learner data to properly function. It’s essential therefore that educators and institutions prioritise the privacy and security of all student data. Clear policies and transparent handling practices are paramount to protect learners’ personal information and to build trust.

Like humans, such algorithms can perpetuate existing biases in language usage if not carefully designed and monitored. Language teachers must carefully evaluate the AI tools and platforms they use to ensure they are free from bias and promote inclusive language practices.

It is important to emphasise that AI should not replace the crucial role of human interaction and guidance in language learning. In our opinion, AI tools should always complement, not replace, the expertise and support of experienced language teachers.

 

Building personalised and adaptable pathways with AI 

Effectively integrating AI into your language learning curricula clearly requires a thoughtful and strategic approach – one that prioritises learner needs and helps them achieve their desired learning outcomes. 

Here are some best practice hints and tips for educators to consider:

  • Clearly define the specific learning outcomes and objectives for each course or lesson. This clarity will guide the selection of appropriate AI tools and ensure that it is used to support the intended learning goals.
  • Always focus on the specific needs of the target learners when selecting AI tools and platforms. Evaluate the functionality, reliability, and alignment with the learning objectives of the curriculum.
  • Integrate AI tools seamlessly into the existing learning framework, ensuring a smooth and natural transition for learners. Avoid relying solely on AI-powered instruction and maintain a balance between AI-supported activities and teacher-led interactions.
  • Transparent communication is key with both students and parents. Take the time to clearly explain how AI will be used, the benefits it brings and how student data will be handled.
  • Ensure that you and other teaching colleagues receive regular training and continuous professional development to stay updated on AI advancements and best practices. Work with EdTech suppliers to ensure that teachers can navigate and make the most of AI-powered tools effectively.
  • Regularly monitor learner progress and adapt the AI-powered pathways accordingly. This data-driven approach will help to ensure that expected progress is being made and that students’ learning experience remains personalised and effective.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to build highly personalised and adaptable learning pathways for your students using AI tools. In doing so, you can empower your learners to achieve their language learning goals more effectively. 

 

Are you interested to learn more about how Sanako’s language teaching technology could transform language teaching in your school or university? Contact us now to book your free remote demo!