A Tennessee Tech University computer science professor is leveraging artificial intelligence to help preserve the Cherokee language, one of many endangered Indigenous languages across the United States. Jesse Roberts, whose interest was ignited by AI-driven projects aimed at protecting the Gaelic language in Ireland, believes similar methods can be used for Cherokee. "My research looks at how we can use computers to process language, reason, and analyze meaning," Roberts explained.
Cherokee, described as a polysynthetic language, allows for complex words to be created by combining smaller linguistic units. This unique structure poses challenges for AI modeling, especially since there is limited digital data available compared to widely spoken languages like English. Fewer than 140 first-language Cherokee speakers remain, with most aged over 60, making urgent action necessary. Roberts emphasized, “This is typical for low-resource languages. With English, we have immense amounts of data available to train AI models. Cherokee, on the other hand, has very little online presence.”
One of the project’s primary goals is to develop AI systems capable of engaging users through conversation, providing tools for language learners and educators. Ben Frey, linguist at the University of North Carolina at Asheville and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, collaborates closely with Roberts, ensuring the cultural intricacies embedded within the language are preserved. “His expertise helps us make sure we’re not just preserving words but also the cultural meanings embedded within the language,” Roberts said.
The research team also collaborates with James "Bo" Taylor, cultural resource officer of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, ensuring the AI tools developed are relevant and beneficial. Roberts noted, “There are strong opinions on how preservation resources should be used. We want this project to synergize the teaching and learning of the language.”
While the long-term vision includes creating AI models for meaningful Cherokee conversations, such initiatives still face years of development. Each progressive step contributes to the necessary documentation and analysis for linguistic preservation. "Every step forward helps," Roberts added. “The more we can document, analyze, and model, the more equipped we are to preserve the language for future generations.”
Outside of Cherokee’s efforts, name trends are enhancing the global language learning environment. Amid the threat of TikTok facing strict bans across the US, language learning surged, with many of the app’s estimated 170 million American users becoming 'TikTok refugees' and moving to Xiaohongshu, another Chinese social media platform. Consequently, numerous users have begun learning Mandarin Chinese. According to Duolingo, as of January 14, 2025, there was a remarkable 216 percent increase in new US-based Chinese learners compared to the same date the previous year.
This digital migration highlights the growing interest in cross-cultural exchanges. Those who once merely consumed content from TikTok are now engaging with new users from China over different topics, demonstrating the vast potential for interaction between cultures through language.
The global language learning app market was valued at $4.96 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $16.69 billion by 2032, according to Business Research Insights. AI has played a significant role, helping apps create personalized and adaptive learning pathways. Yet, the usefulness of such technologies faces scrutiny. Users like Muhammad Haziq Jani, who has been learning Turkish, recognize the pitfalls of gamified learning platforms: "To be honest, if you are new to a language, it’s nearly impossible for you to pick up the grammar and understand how the language is used daily."
Despite the flaws noted by learners, many appreciate the convenience of language learning apps as supplementary tools. For example, Qamar Tahasildar, who uses Duolingo for Japanese, employs additional resources—like Anki flashcards and Pimsleur audio conversations—to create broader learning experiences. These methods highlight the importance of accessing social learning experiences and community engagement during the language learning process.
Though the rise of mobile learning apps has its attractions, they often lack cultural nuances, making it difficult for learners to engage with broader contexts. Users like Claribel Low, dedicated to learning Korean, note this lack of cultural insight during app usage. “Language apps could have features explaining the specific cultural significance behind words, making memorizing vocabularies easier,” she stated.
While language learning apps remain popular as self-directed learning tools, professionals assert they cannot replace the collective experience gained from language immersion and classroom interactions. Associate Professor Victor Lim remarked on the role of interaction, asserting, “Language is best learnt through engagement with others.”
This perspective aligns with the goals of Roberts' project surrounding the Cherokee language—an effort marrying technology with cultural preservation. The stakes are steep; according to the Language Conservancy, nine languages are lost yearly, which averages out to one every 40 days. Without intervention, the Cherokee language could face the same fate. Roberts warns, “When a language dies, you not only lose words but also the worldview, the unique way of engaging with the environment.”
Both Roberts and language enthusiasts recognize the necessity of cultural preservation alongside technological advancement. The collaborative efforts underway aim to create pathways for intergenerational knowledge sharing—allowing not just Cherokee but many endangered languages to find new life through innovative approaches.