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I have heard some people say they will stop teaching their kids languages in the future due to advancements in translation technology. While I welcome this technology as an aid I think ending language learning is a mistake.

I can speak four languages proficiently: English, Urdu, Persian and Turkish. I can also dust off my French and Arabic when need be. I cannot express how much this knowledge has enriched my life. Language is deeply wedded in culture in an intimate way beyond getting information across. Talking to your mother-in-law through an app just doesn’t establish the same human connection.

Language learning has neurological benefits that studies suggest can slow brain aging and stave off degenerative disease. Where I see apps fitting in is as an augmentative tool for learning that makes training your brain easier than ever. But we should keep training our brains.

I wrote an article on my method to help all language learners:

I have heard some people say they will stop teaching their kids languages in the future due to advancements in translation technology. While I welcome this technology as an aid I think ending language learning is a mistake.

I can speak four languages proficiently: English, Urdu, Persian and Turkish. I can also dust off my French and Arabic when need be. I cannot express how much this knowledge has enriched my life. Language is deeply wedded in culture in an intimate way beyond getting information across. Talking to your mother-in-law through an app just doesn’t establish the same human connection.

Language learning has neurological benefits that studies suggest can slow brain aging and stave off degenerative disease. Where I see apps fitting in is as an augmentative tool for learning that makes training your brain easier than ever. But we should keep training our brains.

I wrote an article on my method to help all language learners: https://mazmhussain.substack.com/p/how-to-teach-yourself-a-new-language

Writer, podcaster, and commentator on foreign affairs and politics. Runs /dropglobalnews

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People who make such short sighted claims aren’t usually the kind of people who can zoom out and see the myriad of benefits you describe.