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After Listening to Prof. Chen’s Talk

Breaking Language Learning Barriers: How Generative AI and Educational Robots are Changing the Way We Learn Languages

Did you know that the optimal period for children to learn a language is often considered to be within the golden circle of 18 to 36 weeks? This timeframe for language development has been a main subject of research by Professor Nian-Shing Chen, a distinguished chair professor at National Tsing Hua University. His work delves into the intersection of language learning, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and educational robots, improving the tools that can enhance the educational experience for very young learners.

One particularly noteworthy aspect of the educational robot is its proficiency in storytelling. In addition to telling tales, the robot skillfully provides vivid images and a range of facial expressions to breathe life into the characters. This multifaceted function not only captivates the attention of the little audience but also contributes to their overall comprehension and engagement with the stories.

However, even as we are amazed by the advancements in AI educational tools, it is a must to acknowledge that there can still be some concerns, particularly concerning AI-generated texts. It was once reported in the news that children encountered inappropriate content while enjoying online streams. This challenge for parents lies in the seemingly normal images of the videos and cartoons, making it hard for them to reveal the underlying issues immediately. Trusting that these streams would give them additional free time, parents may expose their children to content that is unsuitable or potentially harmful.

Despite the growing capabilities of AI tools in language observation, it's crucial to recognize the irreplaceable value of human experience. The uniqueness embedded in human interactions, nuanced expressions, and the ability to impart not just language but also cultural context are elements that AI cannot fully replicate. While chatbots and AI can serve as valuable educational assistants, renewing traditional methods, the fundamental qualities of human connection and personalized instruction remain important. The dynamics of a genuine, human-led learning environment provide a depth of understanding and empathy that AI, at its current stage, cannot entirely offer to children.

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