The accessibility of platforms like ChatGPT allows users to learn at their own pace, free from the constraints of traditional course schedules.
Increasingly, young individuals are turning to tools like ChatGPT for language learning, moving away from conventional courses. This shift raises questions about the future of language education and the role of AI platforms in this sector.
ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, has gained popularity for English practice due to its user-friendly interface, 24/7 availability, and adaptability to user needs. Students can engage in conversations, resolve grammatical doubts, and expand their vocabulary without attending in-person classes or paying for expensive online courses.
Proficiency in English has become a key skill for accessing new opportunities, with many Latin American countries adopting English as a second language. According to the latest English Proficiency Index by Education First (EF), Argentina leads the region with the highest English proficiency in Latin America, ranking 28th globally with a score of 562. This marks a two-position improvement from the previous year, reflecting sustained efforts to enhance English skills, although the overall level remains stable.
The index categorizes countries into five levels, from 'very low' to 'very high.' Argentina is the only Latin American country classified as 'high,' underscoring its status as a regional reference. Honduras, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Paraguay, and Bolivia round out the top five Latin American countries with the highest English proficiency, while Haiti, Mexico, Ecuador, Brazil, and Colombia exhibit the lowest levels in comparison.
This global phenomenon is also evident in countries with 'very high' English proficiency, such as the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, which dominate the rankings with scores above 600. Conversely, countries like Azerbaijan and Turkey show a 'low' proficiency level, highlighting linguistic diversity worldwide.
A primary reason young people prefer ChatGPT is its ability to maintain interactive and adaptive conversations. The AI not only corrects errors but also provides detailed explanations and personalized exercises. This allows users to progress at their own pace and focus on areas needing improvement, often unattainable in traditional group courses. Furthermore, ChatGPT enables practice without the social pressure typically associated with in-person classes.
A study conducted by Duolingo in November 2024 surveyed 4,700 Japanese individuals aged 15 to 59, revealing that 10.9% of participants use ChatGPT for language learning, surpassing in-person classes at 13.8%.
Notably, the use of ChatGPT is prevalent among those aged 15 to 19, with 27.8% employing AI chatbots for language learning.
When asked how they learn a language, 'applications' remained the top choice at 58.3%, followed by 'video services' like YouTube at 37.0%, 'textbooks' at 35.6%, 'online classes' at 15.6%, and 'in-person classes' at 13.8%.
The most significant percentage increase was observed in ChatGPT, chosen by 10.9% of respondents, a figure that has increased approximately 1.8 times compared to the previous year. Among those aged 20 to 30, the usage of ChatGPT surpassed in-person lessons and radio.
When asked if they had ever used interactive AI chatbots for language learning, 27.8% of young people aged 15 to 19 and 15.0% of those aged 20 to 29 responded affirmatively, indicating this technology as an emerging learning option for the next generation.
In response to this trend, Japan's Ministry of Education updated its school guidelines in July 2023, allowing limited use of generative AI like ChatGPT in education.
These guidelines emphasize the importance of students understanding AI and its applications while warning against potential negative effects on critical thinking and other skills.
Additionally, caution is advised regarding AI use among primary school students, and presenting work completed entirely with AI assistance is to be considered plagiarism.
The Ministry plans to select several secondary and higher education schools for a pilot program to test AI usage, aiming to review and adjust guidelines based on the results.
Despite its advantages, tools like ChatGPT have limitations. Lacking human qualities, AI cannot identify cultural or emotional nuances essential for deep language learning.
The rise of tools like ChatGPT does not necessarily signal the end of traditional courses but compels them to reinvent. Educational institutions may integrate AI into their programs to offer more comprehensive and personalized experiences. Meanwhile, teachers could focus on cultural aspects and human communication that machines cannot replicate. As young learners continue to leverage the accessibility and versatility of AI, a new trend in language learning is emerging. The question is not whether AI will replace English courses, but how these two options can coexist to enrich the educational experience.