Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly common in education, particularly in language learning apps. While some teachers might worry that AI could potentially replace their roles, at LENGO, we firmly believe that AI is intended to enhance and support teachers, not to take their place.

At LENGO, we actively incorporate AI into several aspects of our language learning platform. Our specialized algorithm, for instance, calculates precisely when users should review vocabulary to help them transition words effectively from short-term memory into long-term memory. Furthermore, we incorporate realistic AI-generated voices into our lessons, which significantly improves learners' pronunciation and listening skills. Our AI assistant also allows users to create customized lessons using straightforward prompts, resulting in a more personalized and engaging learning process.

Despite all these technological advancements, all official lessons and language packs on LENGO are developed, reviewed, and approved by real human experienced teachers. This commitment remains to ensure the quality of our lessons, and we plan to maintain this approach, unless LLMs would change significantly. Any user-generated AI lessons are always subject to human oversight and can only be published under the name of the person who used the AI as an assistant to generate the learning materials. All LENGO packs use real teachers to ensure their accuracy, relevance, and educational value for our users.

While AI is becoming very impressive, it also has clear limitations, notably in the area known as "AI hallucinations." This term refers to situations where AI produces responses that sound convincing but contain inaccuracies or misleading information. For instance, in language learning, AI might inaccurately translate idiomatic expressions literally, such as interpreting "kick the bucket" as physically kicking a bucket rather than meaning "to pass away." Similarly, AI may misapply regional dialects or slang, causing confusion and misunderstanding among learners.

Language models, such as those underlying popular AI tools like ChatGPT, learn from vast amounts of written content sourced from books, websites, and online articles. These models operate by predicting the most likely next word or sentence based on patterns within the training data gathered from the internet. However, because these models rely on probability rather than genuine comprehension, they sometimes produce plausible yet incorrect or misleading information. This limitation is why human intervention and oversight remain critical for learning material.

Human teachers excel in exactly these areas where AI struggles. Educators are adept at providing nuanced explanations, recognizing subtle linguistic contexts, and tailoring instruction to meet the specific needs of each learner. Teachers can identify and address misunderstandings, respond sensitively to learners, also considering their emotional states, and offer culturally appropriate insights, ensuring students grasp not only grammar and vocabulary but also the subtlety and context required for true language mastery. Sometimes we even associate people or situations with words or phrases that we learn in another language. Therefore, apps should be designed to enhance the learning process, but not replace teachers or real conversations.