Schools Turn to AI Translation Tools to Support English Learners
“But experts say the technology is not a replacement for dedicated services that help children acquire English skills for the long term.”
By Lauren Coffey
Coffey explores the benefits and drawbacks of using AI technology for translation. The first scenario presented is a first grade newcomer who is able to discuss a math problem with a classmate through a translation device. The second is a father, who only speaks Spanish, coming to register his child for school using special eye glasses to communicate with the secretary who only speaks English.
Devices with apps such as Pocketalk and Pear Deck help break language barriers and enable students to benefit from the use of their native language. They enable newcomer MLs to understand the important details of a lesson and participate in class.
However, there are serious concerns about over reliance on these devices. Educators agree that these tools cannot replace English language services. There are other means that teachers have been and should use to support MLs in content classes as they are learning the language.
The article also points out some of the problems with these AI systems. One is inaccuracy: the translation doesn’t make sense. Another is that AI is inadequately trained on children’s voices. It can also have issues with the accents of children whose English is unclear because of an accent from their native language. Besides this, it lacks an understanding of other cultures. It can get in the way of interaction between students and between students and teachers. Added to these concerns, there are few if any guidelines for the use of this technology. And if teachers rely on it too much, students may not be prepared to progress in their education.
While this technology has its benefits, its use needs to be limited.
Guillen and Sawin argue that while AI can effectively help tourists and others communicate in basic situations, language learning will not be phased out. In fact, although students are taking fewer language classes and school or college, the use of language learning apps has increased significantly.
