English is the language of AI - why teaching it matters

Sam Colley
Reading time: 3 minutes

In the rapidly evolving age of artificial intelligence (AI), language plays a critical role in shaping the future of technology. English, in particular, has emerged as the dominant language in the AI domain, driving innovations, collaboration and accessibility. As we delve deeper into the digital age, the importance of teaching English becomes increasingly evident. Here are some key points that underscore why English is essential in the realm of AI and why its teaching matters.

Global collaboration and research

AI is a field that thrives on collaboration and the sharing of knowledge. Researchers, developers and engineers worldwide contribute to the collective advancement of AI technologies. English is the common linguistic thread that binds this global community together, enabling seamless communication and collaboration among these diverse professionals.

By teaching English, we empower individuals from various linguistic backgrounds to participate in global research projects, attend international conferences and publish their findings in widely accessible journals. This global exchange of ideas not only accelerates the pace of AI innovation but ensures that advancements are inclusive and representative of a wide array of perspectives.

Access to educational resources and technical documentation

Many AI research papers, educational materials, textbooks, online courses and technical documents are published in English. Leading AI platforms, libraries and frameworks, offer extensive documentation and support primarily in English.

By equipping individuals with English language skills, we empower them to access these invaluable resources. This democratizes the learning process, allowing aspiring AI practitioners from non-English-speaking regions to acquire the knowledge and tools needed to contribute effectively to the field.

Enhancing communication and language learning with AI systems

As AI systems become more integrated into our daily lives, the ability to communicate effectively with these systems is paramount. Many AI-driven applications, from virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa to customer service chatbots, operate predominantly in English. Teaching English ensures that users can interact seamlessly with these technologies, maximizing their utility and enhancing user experience.

Moreover, as continues to advance, proficiency in English allows individuals to better understand and contribute to the development of more sophisticated and intuitive AI communication interfaces.
Ìý

The importance of English in AI
Play
Privacy and cookies

By watching, you agree ÃÛÌÒapp can share your viewership data for marketing and analytics for one year, revocable by deleting your cookies.

Unlocking career opportunities and professional growth

Proficiency in English opens up many career opportunities in the AI industry. Many leading tech companies, research institutions and startups operate in English-speaking environments or require English proficiency for collaboration and communication.

By teaching English, we prepare individuals for these opportunities, enabling them to pursue careers in AI research, development, data science and more. Additionally, English proficiency enhances professional growth by allowing individuals to engage with global networks, attend international conferences and stay updated with the latest industry trends and developments.

Bridging the digital divide

The digital divide refers to “the disparities in access to information and communication technologies (ICTs), as well as the ability to use these technologies effectively. This divide is not only about access to hardware and connectivity but also encompasses differences in digital literacy, economic resources and social inclusion." (Van Dijk, J. A. G. M. 2020).

Language barriers can exacerbate this divide, limiting access to AI-driven innovations and services for non-English-speaking communities. Teaching English helps bridge this gap, ensuring that more people can benefit from AI advancements. This inclusivity is essential for creating AI solutions that address the needs and challenges of diverse populations, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and connected world.

Promoting cross-cultural understanding

In the interconnected world of AI, cross-cultural understanding is crucial. English serves as a bridge connecting people from different cultural backgrounds, fostering mutual respect and collaboration.

By teaching English, we promote cross-cultural understanding and empathy, which are essential for developing AI solutions that are ethical, fair and respectful of diverse cultural contexts. This cultural sensitivity is critical as AI technologies are deployed globally, impacting people from various cultural backgrounds.

The importance of AI and English

In conclusion, teaching English is of paramount importance in the age of AI. English plays a pivotal role in the advancement and accessibility of AI. It’s not just about linguistic proficiency; it is about opening doors to global collaboration, providing access to critical resources, enhancing communication with AI systems, unlocking career opportunities, bridging the digital divide and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

As AI continues to shape the future, ensuring that individuals worldwide have the language skills needed to engage with this technology is essential.ÌýBy prioritizing English education, we can foster a more inclusive and innovative AI landscape, where diverse voices and perspectives drive progress and create solutions that benefit all of humanity.

References

Van Dijk, J. A. G. M. (2020). The Digital Divide. 3rd Edition. SAGE Publications.

Read our blogs on 'The impact of AI on language learning'Ìýand 'How English skills unlock a career in leadership'

Explore our English courses and solutions

More blogs from ÃÛÌÒapp

  • Image of two business women in a office talking together over a document

    Global perspectives: International experience as the ultimate preparation for today’s leaders

    By Samantha Ball
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    From global marketplaces shipping goods between countries to fast-paced remote teams combining talent from all corners of the world, business has never been more international.Ìý

    This multinational, multicultural nature of today’s companies demands more from business leaders. It’s not enough to build a global team, you need to pre-empt and mitigate the challenges that team will face, from overcoming language barriers to navigating new opportunities, and nurturing their differences while creating cohesion.Ìý

    We talked to five leaders about how international experience gave them a global perspective that enhanced their leadership abilities, defined their careers, and shaped their personal lives.Ìý

  • Two teachers sat in a library together talking

    Breakdown of New CASAS STEPS Focus

    By ÃÛÌÒapp Languages
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    Welcome to week 4 of our CASAS STEPS decoding series. We have discussed some of the reasons for the test change, reviewed important ESOL acronyms, answered teachers’ FAQs, and this week we are discussing the focus of the new CASAS STEPS, which replaced the CASAS Life and Work Series in July 2024. The new assessment correlates with ELP Standards and CASAS competencies and tests students’ higher thinking order (DOK levels). Let’s explore what that means and how to prepare our students for this new challenge.

    English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS)

    The ELPS describe the language skills Adult ELL (English Language Learners) need to achieve the higher academic standards required for college and career readiness. The ten anchor standards cover reading, listening, speaking, writing, and language. However, the CASAS STEPS tests only assess ELPS competencies that relate to listening and reading.

    CASAS STEPS Competencies

    TheÌýCASAS CompetenciesÌýidentify more than 360 essential life skills for adult learners; the competencies are relevant from beginning literacy through postsecondary education and training. The new CASAS STEPS covers the following content areas: Basic Communication, consumer economics, community resources, health, employment, and Government and Law.

    Depth of Knowledge (DOK)

    Webb’s Depth of Knowledge was introduced in 1997 by Norman Webb from the Wisconsin Center for Education Research. DOK explains and categorizes academic tasks according to the complexity of thinking required to successfully complete them, ranging from basic recall (level 1) to basic application of skills/concepts (level 2), strategic thinking (level 3), and extended thinking (level 4). (See printable chart).

    Aligned with federal academic standards, the new CASAS STEPS is a valuable tool to assess students in areas that are essential for life in the United States. ÃÛÌÒapp’s Future Series is completely ready and aligned with those critical instructional standards (ELPS and CASAS Competencies) in every lesson. Future Series also specifies cognitive skills in every lesson to ensure that students are engaging in different levels of thinking throughout the instruction (DOK).

    Click hereÌýto download a printable version of the DOK chart, to browse our textbook selection, including our CASAS STEPS aligned FUTURE Series. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you’d like tutorials and tips as a current user,Ìýclick here. Follow along onÌýÌýand share this post with your fellow teachers and administrators.

  • A class of children with tablets standing and talking

    Supporting wellbeing using AI in the classroom

    By
    Reading time: 3.5 minutes

    According to , 2012 students with higher levels of emotional, behavioral, social, and school wellbeing, on average, have higher levels of academic achievement and are more engaged in school. It’s no wonder that fostering wellbeing in the classroom has become a priority for educators. The rise of technology brings up new challenges and issues, but with AI, there are now innovative ways to support student wellbeing like never before.

    In this guide, we’ll explore how AI can be a powerful ally in promoting learner wellbeing. From suggesting wellbeing exercises to providing personalised support, AI offers a variety of tools that can help you create a more supportive and engaging learning environment.Ìý