Research: AI Technologies Boost Human Cognition Significantly
A recent study has explored the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies on human cognition, revealing that they can significantly enhance cognitive abilities. The research focused on a practice called Interlingual Respeaking (IRSP), which involves the collaboration of humans and speech recognition software to create live subtitles in another language. This cognitively demanding process requires language professionals to simultaneously translate spoken language, add punctuation and content labels orally, and edit the speech recognition software to generate accurate subtitles.
The study involved a group of 51 language professionals who participated in a purpose-made 25-hour upskilling course on IRSP. The researchers examined the effects of the training on cognitive abilities, specifically executive functioning (EF) and working memory (WM), which were assessed before and after the course. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in these cognitive abilities among the language professionals who received training in IRSP.
Dr. Anna-Stiina Wallinheimo, a Research Fellow at the Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) and an expert in Cognitive Psychology, emphasized the findings of the research, stating, Our research findings demonstrate that training in new forms of real-time human-AI interaction, such as Interlingual Respeaking, can enhance the cognitive abilities of language professionals, giving them an advantage in a quickly evolving industry.
Dr. Elena Davitti, Associate Professor at CTS and the Principal Investigator of the project, highlighted the increasing reliance on human-AI interaction in the language industry due to the rapid growth of AI-related technologies. She stated, Our research provides valuable empirical insights into the cognitive demands of these complex practices, paving the way for enhanced approaches to upskilling.
As AI continues to reshape the language-related practices, this study not only underscores the crucial role of human-AI collaboration but also emphasizes the need for continuous exploration and adaptation among language professionals in this ever-evolving field.
The study, which was part of the ESRC-funded SMART project (Shaping Multilingual Access through Respeaking Technology) involving a wider international consortium of academic and industry stakeholders, has been published in Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence.
These findings carry significant implications for language professionals and the broader language industry. With the rapid integration of AI technologies, the collaboration between humans and AI systems can lead to improved cognitive abilities and enhanced performance in tasks requiring real-time language processing. This research sheds light on the potential benefits of training and upskilling in new AI-driven practices, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in keeping up with industry advancements.
In conclusion, this study reveals that AI technologies, when combined with human expertise, have the potential to greatly enhance human cognition in language-related tasks. By embracing these new forms of human-AI interaction and investing in upskilling, language professionals can stay ahead in an ever-changing industry where AI technologies are playing an increasingly influential role.
