Google is poised to rival the renowned language learning platform, Duolingo, by introducing an English instruction tool within its Search function.
This tool aims to offer users an interactive platform to enhance their English speaking abilities, providing them with hands-on speaking exercises and tailored feedback when translating to and from English.
Initially available to Android users in countries like Argentina, India, and Mexico, there are plans to roll it out further across different nations and languages.
When using this English practice tool in Google Search, users are presented with cues and are expected to voice their responses using specified words.
Every session spans 3 to 5 minutes and gives customized feedback. Additionally, learners can opt for daily prompts to help them progress through more advanced levels.
The tool not only provides feedback on the accuracy and clarity of responses but also suggests grammar enhancements and alternate phrasings.
If learners come across unfamiliar terms during their sessions, they can click on them to view translations in the conversation’s context.
This feature is envisioned to supplement other language acquisition methods, such as personal tutors, mobile applications, or formal classes, granting users an extra resource in their language mastery pursuit.
To bring these functions to life, extensive AI and machine learning techniques were utilized. The Translate team at Google developed the “Deep Aligner” model for optimal word matching and translation suggestions.
Moreover, specialized grammar correction systems were adapted for speech transcriptions, especially for those with distinct accents. Google’s researchers crafted models for context-based feedback and gauging the intricacy of sentences and words, ensuring users are presented with tasks suitable for their proficiency level.
