Preply Study Reveals AI Cannot Replace Human Teachers

As artificial intelligence applications continue to showcase their capabilities in language learning, the future of language education is increasingly becoming a topic of debate. A recent study by Preply indicates that AI cannot substitute the human touch in teacher-student relationships.

The introduction of OpenAI's ChatGPT-4 with its simultaneous translation and language proficiency features has garnered significant attention, even affecting the performance of language learning application stocks on the US market. However, recent research shows that AI cannot replace the crucial human element in the language learning process. The study conducted by Preply highlights that 70% of students are aware of the importance of human interaction and guidance in their learning journey.

Among the surveyed students, 67% of those in Turkey emphasized the importance of learning from real teachers. The comprehensive survey by Preply, which connects users with over 32,000 teachers worldwide, included responses from more than 2,700 students and over 1,000 English teachers from various countries, including Turkey. The findings reveal that students in Turkey are also hesitant about learning solely through AI, preferring the involvement of human teachers.

The study shared on Preply's website underscores that the student-teacher relationship extends beyond the classroom context, emphasizing the undeniable contribution of human interaction to the learning experience. Additionally, 31% of participants from the Gen Z demographic expressed reluctance to share personal information with AI.

A significant concern among 31% of the surveyed students regarding AI-based learning processes is the lack of human connection and motivation provided by teachers. While AI-based learning has made its mark in the educational literature, it has been found inadequate in replacing the organic relationship established between students and teachers. The study's commentary highlights that the teacher-student relationship involves a motivational and progressive approach, where the teacher's encouragement leads to student advancement, and progressing students maintain their motivation. The loss of motivation was also cited as a primary reason for abandoning AI-based language learning applications.

Despite AI's inability to fully replace teachers, approximately 47% of English teachers reported already utilizing AI in their teaching practices. Nearly half of the teachers use AI and automation tools for creating grammar and vocabulary exercises (41%), seeking assistance in language education (36%), organizing reading and listening activities (35%), and generating sample texts for writing exercises (34%).

Preply's research, which emphasizes making language learning independent of time and place, concludes by noting that 54% of respondents from countries such as Turkey, Spain, and Italy envision a future where language learning combines AI technology with human interaction in a balanced mix. The study demonstrates that while human teachers remain irreplaceable in language learning, AI technologies can significantly enhance the learning process.