Copilots for Linguists: AI, Constructions, and Frames

AI can assist the linguist in doing research on the structure of language. An AI LLM chatbot is a text-generation system trained on vast amounts of text. It can labor usefully as an eliciting interlocutor, and present precise, scripted routines for prompting conversational LLMs. The authors investigate whether AI LLM chatbots are useful tools for linguists and reframe the discussion from what AI LLM chatbots can do with language to what they can do for linguists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

AI can play a crucial role in assisting linguists in their research endeavors. This Element serves as an illustration of this potential by showcasing how a conversational AI, specifically an AI LLM chatbot, can aid the Construction Grammarian, particularly the Frame Semanticist. An AI LLM chatbot is a text-generation system trained on extensive textual data. To generate text, it requires the ability to identify patterns within the data and replicate certain linguistic capabilities, at least from the perspective of a cooperative human user. The authors of this study do not delve into whether AI "understands" language. Instead, they focus on examining the usefulness of AI LLM chatbots for linguists. They shift the focus of the discussion from what AI LLM chatbots can accomplish with language to what they can offer to linguists. Their findings indicate that a chatty LLM can serve as a valuable eliciting interlocutor, providing precise and scripted routines for prompting conversational LLMs.

Introduction:
Language is a complex and fascinating subject that has captivated the minds of linguists for centuries. As technology advances, it becomes increasingly possible for AI to assist in linguistic research and analysis. In this Element, we will explore how AI can be used to support the work of Construction Grammars and Frame Semanticists.

AI LLM Chatbots:
AI LLM chatbots are text-generation systems trained on vast amounts of text. They are capable of finding patterns in the data and mimicking certain linguistic capabilities, such as sentence construction and word choice. These chatbots can be useful tools for linguists in their research endeavors.

Eliciting Interlocutor:
One of the primary ways in which AI can assist linguists is by serving as an eliciting interlocutor. An eliciting interlocutor is a person who prompts another person to speak or respond in a particular way. In the case of AI LLM chatbots, they can be used to prompt conversational LLMs to produce specific responses or to engage in particular conversations.

Precise and Scripted Routines:
AI LLM chatbots can also be used to provide precise and scripted routines for prompting conversational LLMs. These routines can be designed to elicit specific information or to engage in particular conversations. By using these routines, linguists can ensure that they are getting the most out of their conversational LLMs and that they are obtaining the data they need for their research.

Conclusion:
AI can play a crucial role in assisting linguists in their research endeavors. By leveraging the capabilities of AI LLM chatbots, linguists can enhance their understanding of language structure and function. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative ways in which AI can be used to support linguistic research.

Weight: 194g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009439220