David Walker, Chief Product Officer at Decoded, explains how learning a new language can be challenging, but with the right AI tools and techniques, it becomes an exciting journey.
As Chief Product Officer at Decoded, I’ve been exploring how GenAI can enhance learning – so when I decided to tackle German, I saw an opportunity to experiment.
Learning in real-world contexts is powerful. Our GenAI Champion L3 Apprenticeship equips professionals to apply AI to practical challenges – just as I’ve done with language learning. Here’s how I combined AI, traditional methods, and a bit of trial and error to build my skills – and how you can do the same.
I started my German learning journey with Duolingo, and while it was useful for vocabulary, I quickly realised a problem: I could pass tests, but I couldn’t actually communicate. The words were in my head, but I wasn’t forming natural sentences.
I decided to join an in-person beginners’ class. Even though I had some knowledge, I knew I needed to practise speaking out loud, build confidence, and learn from real interactions. This made a huge difference – I was able to work through the principles that had been holding me back and apply my vocabulary in real situations.
At this point, I also started using Memrise, which I found even more effective than Duolingo. It offers different learning modes, and the AI chat feature is a game-changer, allowing me to practise conversations beyond the classroom. (Tip: set your phone keyboard to German and use the dictation feature – it forces you to form sentences and speak aloud, which I’ve found invaluable as someone with dyslexia.)
While apps and classes helped, I wanted to push my learning even further. That’s when I turned to GenAI and started experimenting with different prompts to build a structured practice framework.
I used ChatGPT-4o to create an interactive role-play tool that mimics real conversations. This allowed me to practise in a natural, flexible way, reinforcing both vocabulary and grammar while also improving my ability to think and respond in German.
Here’s the framework I developed, which you can use and adapt for your own language learning:
– Exchanges: Each session consists of {{exchange_range}} interactions (e.g., 7–10 exchanges).
– Scenario: At the start of each session, specify a context (e.g., ordering food, self-introduction, booking a hotel).
– Target Language: I will respond in {{target_language}}.
– Translation Format: Each response will be followed by a translation in {{translation_language}}, displayed in {{translation_format}} (e.g., in smaller font within [square brackets]).
After each of your replies, the AI will:
Validate – Check your response for correctness.
Correct – Provide necessary adjustments.
Explain – Offer brief explanations to reinforce learning without overwhelming details.
– Vocabulary Expansion – Introduce and reinforce new words.
– Grammar Practice – Focus on key structures in context.
– Encouragement – Maintain a positive, supportive tone.
– Focus – Prioritise key corrections to streamline learning.
Just like learning a language, mastering GenAI is about applying knowledge in real-world scenarios. This is exactly what we focus on in Decoded’s Gen AI Champion L3 Apprenticeship – teaching people how to use AI practically and effectively, whether for data analysis, automation, or, in my case and in my free time, language learning.
Decoded also offers 60-minute immersion session on the Art of Prompt Engineering. This session will equip participants with essential tools to maximise efficiency and precision in Generative AI applications and then link it to the program on the website.
Learning German has been an exciting challenge, and combining AI tools with human interaction has transformed my approach. Whether you’re tackling a new language, improving your AI skills, or just looking for innovative ways to learn, integrating Generative AI can make the process more interactive and effective.
Want to explore how AI can help you learn, work, and innovate? Check out our GenAI Champion L3 Apprenticeship or for more information, send us a message.
If you’d like to learn more about Decoded and how we can help transform your
organisation, we’d love to hear from you.
