The integration of technology in the teaching process was one of the most important steps for the growth of language learning after the Second World War. After 50s and 60s decades, new technologies came up in the language teaching field such as recorder, language laboratory, radio, television, computer-assisted learning and eventually, what we could call all sort of electronic device-assisted learning.
Out of all these technologies it is not hard to believe that nowadays, the mobile phone is the electronic device with more expectations in relation to language learning, and therefore point of attention for tecno-educative research.
But why so much interest in improving current technology for language learning when we could simply improve technology to directly avoid the necessity of learning languages?
I am aware that many people find learning languages a waste of time. However, speaking several languages has well known benefits like avoidance of dementia, concentration enhancement, improvement of problem-solving skills and even gaining more money.
Furthermore, even if these benefits are not enough for you, it is a fact that cultural diversity is globally growing. Especially due to the rising levels of international migration. Leading to the hypothesis that a more multicultural world could lead to a more multilingual generation.
There was a study done in 2011 that found out that 77% of millennials in the European Union spoke more than one language. And according to the publication, those who spoke more than one language were usually young professionals with higher education.
Leading me to the question, are we taking the opportunity that technology means for language learning?
An impressive example of taking opportunities and moreover, hard work, is Hillary Yip. A 13-year-old student from Hong Kong, successful application developer and executive director. She designed the application MinorMynas to connect children from all over the world with the purpose of learning each other’s mother language.
Nevertheless, despite the many ways in which technology can be helpful, not only for children, but for everyone, experts say that current technology has better results as a complement rather than as a replacement of conventional methodologies.
For the future, this statement may change with the rising of artificial intelligence like virtual assistants or chatbots, which are becoming each time more sophisticated.
However, weather will technology replace conventional methods of language learning, or directly eliminate the necessity of language learning, is a question I leave open for you to reflect.