Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way we live, work, and learn. In the world of English language learning, AI avatars are becoming more common. They can talk, answer questions, and even simulate real conversations — sometimes 24 hours a day!
But how do they compare with learning from real teachers? And what’s the best way to use both in the future? Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.
At Perfectly Spoken, all our teachers are qualified, experienced professionals. They have taught English for many years, in different countries, and to students at all levels — from complete beginners to advanced speakers.
One of the biggest advantages of learning with real teachers is human connection. A real teacher understands your expressions, your motivation, and the small signs that show when you’re confused or when something finally makes sense. They can smile, encourage, and adapt immediately to your needs — something no computer can yet fully do.
Our teachers also adjust their delivery to your level. If you’re at A2, they speak more slowly and use simpler grammar and vocabulary. At higher levels, they increase the speed and complexity of language so you can move naturally towards real-world English. This careful grading of language is a skill that comes only from experience and training.
Real teachers are also great at explaining culture, humour, and meaning — the subtle elements of communication that make language come alive. And in live practice sessions, you can interact, ask questions, and build real communication skills with other learners. That human exchange is at the heart of how languages are truly learned.
AI avatars are computer-generated “virtual teachers.” They can be programmed to look and sound like real people, and they can provide practice or explanations instantly. For learners, this means availability and consistency — you can study anytime, anywhere, and repeat lessons as often as you like.
As AI technology continues to improve, these systems may become more personalised. They could one day suggest review activities, help you practise pronunciation, or adjust automatically to your progress. This could make them a useful companion for self-study — especially between lessons with human teachers.
However, AI still has important limitations. It doesn’t truly understand emotion, context, or culture. It can’t sense when you’re losing confidence or when you’ve had a breakthrough. And although it can correct mistakes, it doesn’t always explain why something is wrong in a way that connects with you personally. Sometimes, its language can sound a little too formal or robotic.
That’s why, at Perfectly Spoken, we continue to believe that the best way to learn is through expert human teaching supported by smart technology.
Our focus remains on high-quality video lessons, structured courses, and live practice with real teachers. This ensures you receive clear explanations, authentic pronunciation, and natural communication practice — all delivered by professionals who understand what learners really need at each stage.
As technology evolves, AI may play a bigger role in language learning, offering new kinds of practice and feedback. When that happens, it will be important to use it in a way that supports, not replaces, human teaching. The human touch — the ability to inspire, motivate, and connect — will always be at the centre of successful learning.
AI avatars are an exciting new development, and they may become useful tools for extra, personalised practice in the future. But the foundation of good English learning will always be real teachers — professionals who know how to make language clear, engaging, and meaningful.
At Perfectly Spoken, we’re proud to keep that human expertise at the heart of everything we do — while keeping a close eye on how new technologies can enhance your experience when the time is right.
An AI avatar is a computer-generated virtual teacher that can talk, answer questions, and help learners practise English through interactive lessons and conversations.
AI avatars are great for flexibility and extra practice, but real teachers provide empathy, cultural understanding, and real communication — things AI still can’t fully replicate.
Many AI systems can give pronunciation feedback and help you repeat sounds and words correctly. However, a real teacher can explain why something sounds wrong, show you how to fix it naturally, and help you gain fluency through real, interactive conversations.
Real teachers adapt to your level, notice your emotions, and give cultural and personal context that makes learning more meaningful and motivating.
Use AI avatars for extra practice or self-study between lessons, and work with real expert teachers* for deeper learning, feedback, and conversation skills.
*Remember all teachers at Perfectly Spoken have a university degree and are CELTA/DELTA qualified. Plus, they have a minimum of 10 years of experience in teaching English as a second language.
Probably not. While AI can support learning, the human touch — motivation, inspiration, and real communication — remains essential in language education.
Usually, yes. AI tools often cost less or are included in apps, but real teachers offer long-term value through expert feedback and personalised learning.
At Perfectly Spoken, our teachers use AI to help them create engaging activities and personalised practice for you — combining the best of technology with real teaching expertise.
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