Teaching English for over 20 years, I’m a strong believer that the ability to engage in meaningful conversations and provide emotional support is (still) a crucial component of effective language instruction. While artificial intelligence has made great strides in recent years, it is still limited in its ability to replicate the complexities and nuances of human communication and social interactions.

I’m positive that most English teachers will agree that the ability to engage in authentic conversations with other human beings is a key factor in improving students’ language skills. Not only do these conversations provide an opportunity for learners to practice their speaking and listening skills but also to learn about different cultures and different perspectives. Additionally, the emotional support and guidance provided by a teacher is, IMHO, a vital part of the learning process, helping learners to feel motivated and confident as they progress in their language journey.

Walsh (2006) argues that

“The role of the teacher is central to co-constructing a dialogue in which learning opportunities are maximised through the use of specific interactional strategies to  scaffold, shape and clarify learner contributions.“

Language learning is not just about acquiring technical skills – it is also about developing cultural competence and an understanding of the social and emotional aspects of communication. A skilled language teacher can help learners navigate these complexities and become more confident and effective communicators.

While artificial intelligence may be able to help with certain language learning tasks, it is unlikely to fully replace the value of human interaction and emotional support in language instruction. 

Walsh, S. (2006) Investigating classroom discourse.