Fijian educators are increasingly reassessing their approach to language instruction as concerns grow about the impact of artificial intelligence and translation tools on students’ writing and creative capabilities. Bhagirati Bhan, a Hindi lecturer at the University of the South Pacific, highlights that more students are leaning on platforms like Google Translate and AI-generated content to fulfill their academic requirements, often turning in work that lacks originality and comprehension.
This trend is particularly troubling in language education, where skills such as writing, expression, and creativity are vital. Bhan notes, “Students search in English, paste the text into Google Translate, and submit it as Hindi,” emphasizing that while the final product may appear accurate, it lacks the depth of thought and creativity necessary for true learning.
Other educators similarly express concern, pointing out that reliance on these technologies has diminished students’ confidence in independently writing in Hindi and hampered their understanding of grammar and sentence structure. The consensus among teachers is that the issue lies not with the technology itself, but with its application as a shortcut, rather than as a tool for genuine learning.
In response, universities are implementing innovative assessment methods designed to reduce students’ dependence on AI tools, striving to promote more authentic learning experiences. Despite these challenges, many educators maintain an optimistic outlook. They believe that when used responsibly, technology can still be a valuable ally in enhancing Hindi language learning, leveraging resources such as Hindi podcasts, online lectures, and educational videos to enrich the student experience.
By fostering a balanced approach to technology, Fijian educators hope to inspire students to engage with language learning more deeply, ensuring that they develop essential skills alongside technological advancements.
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