BALANCING LOCAL VOICES AND GLOBAL COMMUNICATION: AI'S DUAL ROLE IN DIALECT PRESERVATION AND ENGLISH ACQUISITION IN WEST KALIMANTAN

Abstract

This study investigated the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in simultaneously preserving local dialects and facilitating English language acquisition in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Through a mixed-methods approach conducted over a one-month period, the research combined quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with 50 participants (30 community members and 20 education professionals), alongside systematic AI tool testing. The investigation examined three critical dimensions: community perceptions, technical feasibility, and ethical considerations of AI-based language preservation. Results revealed a significant generational divide in acceptance rates, with 90% of younger participants (18-30 years) embracing AI technology compared to 60% among older participants (50+ years). While 80% of community members viewed AI positively for language preservation, technical evaluation identified substantial limitations in AI's capacity to accurately process dialect-specific expressions, achieving only 35% accuracy in cultural context recognition compared to 85% in basic vocabulary processing. The findings highlighted critical concerns regarding linguistic homogenization and emphasized a strong community preference (85%) for local control over language data. These results underscore the necessity for developing culturally sensitive, dialect-specific AI models that prioritize community ownership and authentic preservation of linguistic heritage.