东西问丨李宇明：人工智能时代，为何中文学习仍不可或缺？

Core Viewpoint - The necessity of learning Chinese remains significant in the era of artificial intelligence, as it enhances personal development and cultural understanding, which cannot be replaced by machines [3][4]. Group 1: Importance of Learning Chinese - The value of learning Chinese extends beyond mere language skills; it is a comprehensive process that integrates professional skills, cultural understanding, and practical application [4]. - Human language learning fundamentally differs from large language models, as it involves cultural experiences and social interactions that machines cannot replicate [4][5]. - In high-context communication and serious scenarios, human language ability is irreplaceable, as it requires conveying cultural nuances and emotional depth that machines cannot achieve [5]. Group 2: Trends in International Chinese Education - The field of international Chinese education has evolved significantly, with the establishment of a comprehensive talent training system at various educational levels [7]. - A growing trend is the integration of "Chinese + vocational skills," with over 600 vocational colleges participating, linking Chinese education closely with economic development [7]. - Chinese is increasingly being incorporated into national education systems, with 86 countries including it in their curricula, and over 50% of learners in basic education being young students [8]. Group 3: Addressing the "Foreign Language Crisis" - The "foreign language crisis" has spread globally, impacting various countries, but international Chinese education has not shown significant signs of crisis due to its integrated approach [10]. - The demand for Chinese language professionals still exceeds supply, particularly in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, indicating a focus on improving teaching quality [10]. - Despite the lack of immediate crisis, there are risks associated with the rise of AI translation technologies, prompting the need for proactive measures in international Chinese education [10]. Group 4: Optimizing Teaching Paths - The core of international Chinese education should focus on enhancing value and fostering innovative integration in teaching and learning [11]. - A shift from traditional classroom-based learning to practical, experiential learning is essential, utilizing smart tools for pronunciation correction and situational dialogue practice [11]. - Teaching should emphasize the deep integration of language and culture, encouraging students to share their own cultural experiences in Chinese [13]. Group 5: Enhancing the Value of Chinese - The development of international Chinese education should focus on increasing the "altruistic value" and "global value" of the language, linking it closely with China's development [14]. - Chinese should be positioned as a necessary tool in various sectors, such as e-commerce and high-tech industries, to enhance its practical value [14]. - There is a need to cultivate learners' abilities to communicate effectively in Chinese while also sharing their own cultural narratives, reinforcing the language's role as a bridge between China and the world [14].