Revitalizing Endangered Languages: AI-powered language learning as a catalyst for language appreciation

Abstract

According to UNESCO, there are nearly 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, of which around 3,000 languages are in danger of disappearing before the end of the century. With roughly 230 languages having already become extinct between the years 1950-2010, collectively this represents a significant loss of linguistic and cultural diversity. This position paper aims to explore the potential of AI-based language learning approaches that promote early exposure and appreciation of languages to ultimately contribute to the preservation of endangered languages, thereby addressing the urgent need to protect linguistic and cultural diversity.