The Great Language Learning Dilemma: AI Apps vs. Human Coaches as Resources

A quick search on LinkedIn results in About 1,610,000 results for the term ?language coach”. We cannot conclude that there are that many language coaches on the market, however, it is a clear indication of ?language” and ?coach” appearing in the same profile, which means those who deal with language (or did at some point), also have coaching skills.

But why do we still need a human language coach when there are so many apps available and AI has entered the language teaching market with the speed of a top-tier Tesla?

In the evolving world of language coaching, both AI-powered apps and human coaches offer unique benefits.? Here’s a comparison of what each can do, helping you see how best to support your learners for their language learning journey.

In the evolving world of language coaching, AI-powered apps offer numerous advantages for learners. These apps can enhance your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation through interactive exercises that provide instant feedback. With adaptive learning experiences tailored to your progress and goals, you can enjoy a highly personalized education. Moreover, AI apps offer the convenience of accessing learning tools anytime and anywhere, often at a lower cost. Their engaging features, such as interactive games, challenges, and multimedia content, keep learners motivated. Additionally, AI apps immerse you in diverse cultural content through videos, articles, and simulations, broadening your understanding of different cultures.

On the other hand, human coaches bring irreplaceable value to the language learning process. They provide nuanced feedback and clarifications tailored specifically to your needs, ensuring a deeper understanding of the language. The personal connection with a coach offers motivation and accountability, helping you stay on track with your goals. Human coaches offer deep insights into cultural nuances and real-life language use, which are difficult for AI to replicate. They can also adapt lessons in real time based on your learning style and progress, providing a highly customised learning experience. Also, human coaches excel in developing soft skills, such as conversation and critical thinking, through meaningful, spontaneous interactions. They will use the full extent of their coaching skills that also include positive psychology, metalanguage and a clear understanding of the backgrounds of given clients. Combining the strengths of AI apps and human coaches can result in deeper, more comprehensive language development.

While AI and apps provide excellent tools for self-paced learning, the role of a human coach is irreplaceable for personalised feedback, cultural understanding, and developing nuanced language and communication skills in the widest of environments. These may range from support in job interviews to leadership communication challenges for specific company cultures or on-the-spot presentation feedback to pronunciation practice. Not to mention the ethics that humans will commit to by contracting with the learner. Combining both resources can offer a comprehensive and effective language learning experience.

For the many language coaches out there, enhancing your expertise involves developing advanced language coaching skills. Trust us, we know what we're talking about. If you want to truly deepen the human side of your language learning support, check out our programs available at ilcaglobal.com.

#LanguageLearning #LanguageCoaching #AIinEducation #EdTech #ProfessionalDevelopment #CPD #ILCA

This article has been written by ILCA co-founder, Gabriella Kovacs MA, PCC using Chat GPT to grow awareness around language coaching, an emerging discipline.