Inna Kuzminska
(Khmelnytskyi National University)
Research supervisor: K.V. Rudnitska, PhD
THE IMPACT OF NEURAL NETWORKS ON LANGUAGE LEARNING
The most significant advantage of learning a new language at any stage of life is that it can improve memory, brain function, concentration, creativity, and communication skills. As the digital age continues to shrink the globe, learning a new language can open diverse opportunities for individuals, introduce learners to disparate cultures, and foster a global culture of harmony. While technology has reiterated the applicability of learning a new language, it has also facilitated language education.
Advanced technologies help in identifying students’ weak and strong areas. They monitor student growth, learning pace, and learning style preferences to align the content with their needs [1].
The appearance of neural networks available to the general public was a real breakthrough, even though the prototypes were developed in the mid-20th century, based on research into the principles of biological neurons by V. McCulloch and D. Hebb [2]. However, it will not be until 2022 that everyone will be able to test these technologies. In his book “Neural Networks and Deep Learning”, Michael Nielsen demonstrates the principle of the neuron as a function capable of making decisions based on input data and its parameters [3].
Different types of deep neural networks have unique characteristics, each with its set of advantages and disadvantages depending on the application:
Speechace is a language learning platform that uses neural networks to analyze pronunciation and provide feedback to improve oral communication skills in English. It offers users the opportunity to practice speaking English through interactive exercises and assessments. The platform uses advanced speech recognition technology powered by neural networks to assess pronunciation accuracy and fluency Using Speechace to learn English offers a multi-faceted approach to language development. Firstly, learners can practice pronunciation by recording themselves and receiving instant feedback on accuracy and intonation. Secondly, the platform offers targeted exercises to improve specific aspects of pronunciation, such as vowel sounds or consonant clusters. Thirdly, learners can engage in speaking exercises and dialogues to improve fluency and confidence in real-life communication. Fourth, Speechace offers customisable learning paths based on individual strengths and weaknesses, ensuring a personalised learning experience. Overall, Speechace is a valuable tool for English learners who want to improve their speaking skills using neural network technology.
Coach.Microsoft is a comprehensive education platform developed by Microsoft that uses neural network technology to enhance the learning experience for students and educators alike. The platform offers a wide range of tools and resources designed to support personalised learning and professional development. Coach.Microsoft uses advanced machine learning algorithms to analyse user interactions and adapt content delivery in real time, providing personalised recommendations and feedback. Using Coach.Microsoft to learn English provides a structured approach to language acquisition. Learners can access personalised lesson plans tailored to their level and learning goals, ensuring targeted improvement. The platform includes interactive exercises and quizzes that reinforce grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation skills. Coach.Microsoft provides instant feedback on pronunciation and grammar errors, facilitating continuous improvement. Finally, learners can track their progress over time and receive recommendations for further study, encouraging a self-directed learning journey.
DeepL is an AI-powered language translation platform renowned for its exceptional accuracy and natural-sounding translations. It uses deep neural networks to understand and seamlessly translate text between multiple languages. The platform offers translations for various content types, including documents, websites and texts, and caters to both personal and professional needs. DeepL’s neural network models are trained on vast amounts of multilingual data, enabling them to generate translations that effectively preserve context and meaning. Using DeepL to learn English can be an effective method due to its advanced translation capabilities. Entering text in your native language and comparing it with the English translations can help you understand grammar and vocabulary. Utilizing DeepL’s multilingual dictionary feature allows learners to explore word meanings and usage in context. Practising writing in your native language and then translating it to English with DeepL helps improve sentence structure and expression. Engaging with various types of English content, such as articles or stories, and using DeepL to grasp their meaning facilitates immersive learning experiences [4].
However, despite their advantages, neural networks require careful handling and regular training, as well as consideration of ethical and confidentiality issues in data processing. It is important to approach the development and use of neural networks responsibly in order to fully harness their potential for the benefit of one’s business. Changes have already begun, the increasing availability of data and advancements in technology have led to the widespread application of neural networks. This trend is expected to continue, resulting in innovative solutions and improvements in various fields.
REFERENCES
- Edmund L. Andrews. Using artificial intelligence to understand why students are struggling. 2021. URL: https://hai.stanford.edu/news/using-artificial-intelligence-understand-why-students-arestruggling
- Michael A. Nielsen. “Neural Networks and Deep Learning”. Determination Press. 2015. URL: http://neuralnetworksanddeeplearning.com/
- Schmidhuber Deep learning in neural networks: An overview. Neural Networks. 2015. P. 85–117.
- LeCun, Y., Bengio, Y., & Hinton, G. Deep learning. Nature. 2015. 521(7553). p. 436–444.