Computer technologies, with their ability to process vast amounts of information, are proving to be extremely useful in the field of linguistics. When comparing languages, the translator uses grammar and syntax, as well as the most basic vocabulary of a given language with unchanging words. Computer technologies serve to systematically and quickly compare this information. Moreover, different iterations of the same language can be compared with each other for their historical evolution. Neural networks learn so quickly that their productivity in collecting information outshines any experienced linguist, many times surpassing human resources in endurance and multitasking. At the moment, neural networks that can register and interpret even the natural language of human gestures are being developed (Goldberg, 2017). Technology not only helps a person in the collection of a language database but also opens hitherto unknown boundaries of the concept of “language”. Computer technology is also capable of giving a person impressive advantages in the process of mastering a new language. The novelty of technology is not only a sign of its modernity and progressiveness but also an object of additional interest. For example, students who have used the Chatbot as a language learning partner initially show more interest in the subject (Fryer, Ainley, Thompson, Gibson, & Sherlock, 2017). However, to master the language, regular practice is required, but the interest in interacting with the robot fades away quickly enough. This means that, despite the unconditional relief that computer technologies bring to the field of language learning, interaction with a living person remains fundamental. Technology is a tool that can help a person learn a language, provide information, or correct grammatical errors, but it cannot replace real-life communication that generates the interest so important for language learning.
References
Fryer, L. K., Ainley M., Thompson A., Gibson A., Sherlock Z. (2017). Stimulating and sustaining interest in a language course: an experimental comparison of Chatbot and Human Task partners. Computers In Human Behavior, 75, 461-468. Web.
Goldberg, Y. (2017). Neural network methods for natural language processing. Synthesis Lectures on Human Language Technologies, 10(1), 1-319. Web.