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Chasing Global Nursing Dreams? AI Can Help Nurture Your English Proficiency  - PRS Global

Written by Kevin Murphy | Nov 8, 2023 5:00:00 AM

Are you interested in pursuing a nursing career in a different country? Aside from the medical skills and knowledge you’re required to have for the profession, the ability to communicate is also an important skill you need to master. 

English is one of the most widely spoken languages. Just like in other industries, the healthcare sector depends on professionals who can understand and communicate effectively with the people they meet. Whether they are talking to fellow medical staff or diverse patients, they have to know how to overcome the language barrier as there are lives on the line in case of miscommunication. 

But what if your skills in using English need some improvement? Don’t worry! Thanks to the recent advancements in technology, artificial intelligence or AI can help nurture your English proficiency wherever and whenever you want. 

The Need for Proficiency in English 

To chase your dreams of becoming a nurse in English-speaking countries, you need to prove your ability to communicate in English. The global medical industry is composed of professionals who come from different places, and many of them have some level of English proficiency up their sleeves.  

The good thing about working with professionals all over the world is that English levels vary.  

You do not need to be perfect at the language to start, you just must practice using the language as much as you can to improve.  

Read More: 2023 Guide to Telenursing for Global Nurses 

If you plan to work in the USA as a foreign nurse, you must brush up on your English skills. Although there are some states that don’t require an English proficiency exam, most places still implement the requirement of passing an English proficiency test before you’re allowed to travel there for work. 

 According to the State Board of Nursing, if a candidate finished a nursing education program that was not conducted in English, they need to pass an approved English language proficiency examination.¹  Some examples of the approved tests are as follows: 

AI as Your Learning Buddy 

Since improving your English skills is necessary, it’s only natural for you to seek modern ways to get better. Some people pay to take lessons. However, there is also a way to have cost-efficient learning sessions.  

The answer is to leverage the current technology available to you, which is Artificial Intelligence. 

AI refers to programs and machines that are built to simulate human intelligence. Its purpose is to accomplish repetitive and time-consuming tasks that only humans had the ability to do before.  

One of the best examples of AI are language models like the popular ChatGPT developed by OpenAI or Bard by Google.² There are some people who use AI tools to aid their work while others use them for their own enjoyment. 

Benefits of Using AI as an Aspiring Global Nurse 

You can also use chatbots to improve your English proficiency. As an aspiring global nurse, the following are advantages you can enjoy if you start using AI language tools to improve your language proficiency. 

1. Provides Conversational Practice 

Since AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT are programmed to respond as fast as possible, using them gives you the chance to mimic actual conversation. By typing in your sentences in the chat and hitting send, you are already engaging in a real-time dialogue. This can help you quickly understand messages and quickly create a response.  

2. Knowledgeable about English Rules 

Since AI language tools are programmed with proper English grammar, you can be sure that it is well-versed in helping you correct any grammatical error. For example, you may work on your subject-verb agreement well thanks to the prompt response of the tool. You can also ask the chatbot to help simplify medical terms for you. 

3. Creates Personalized Learning Experience 

One of the strengths of AI is its ability to adapt to its user’s algorithm. Contexts and prompts matter greatly for chatbots. So based on your conversations and interactions with the tool, it can create tailored content, exercises, and examples that would personalize your learning experience. 

4. Cost-Effective Option 

Traditional language learning methods can be costly since they include enrolling in classes, buying textbooks, and even hiring a private tutor when needed. On the other hand, ChatGPT 3.5 (a paid version of the AI tool) offers a more affordable alternative.  

It removes the need for bulky and pricey materials and provides free practices and opportunities to learn English in the comfort of your own home. 

5. 24/7 Study Partner 

Increasing your English language proficiency isn’t something you can accomplish in just one or two days. However, your schedule as a nurse might not permit hours of continuous language lessons. Whether you want to study in the morning, afternoon, or evening, you can access the AI tool anytime you want. Your previous chat logs are also available for you to come back to. 

Read More: Immigration Update: The Occupational English Test (OET) is Now Accepted for VisaScreen 

How to Use ChatGPT or Bard 

Using a new form of technology can sound scary at times but is usually very simple. For example, AI language models involve a straightforward process with a user-friendly design. This makes it easy for professionals like you to navigate through a few simple steps. 

Step 1: Access the ChatGPT or Bard website. 

Step 2: Sign in or log in using your chosen email address to keep track of your previous chats. 

Step 3: Click the chatbox at the bottom of the screen and start your conversation. 

Step 4: Provide as much context as you want so the AI can generate tailor-fit responses 

Step 5: Read the replies of the AI and respond accordingly to mimic a real conversation. You can use statements or questions in this step – it’s up to you. 

Examples of Prompts You Can Use 

You can use these prompts as samples. Change the italicized words as you prefer. 

Expanding Vocabulary: 

  • List down synonyms and antonyms for the word [Coagulate]
  • What does [perforate] mean? Give me its definition and use the word in some example sentences. 

Checking Grammar and Sentence Structure: 

  • Point out any grammatical errors from this paragraph and explain why they are wrong: [insert your written paragraph] 
  • Check the sentence structures of this paragraph. Suggest improvements to make it better and the reasons why: [insert your written paragraph] 

Practicing Conversation: 

  • Let’s start a conversation about [your chosen topic]. Start by asking me a question about it. 
  • I want to practice my English. Let’s talk about [your chosen topic] but point out any grammatical errors I make. 

START YOUR CAREER WITH PRS GLOBAL  

More than just a company, PRS Global cares about your success both on the job and in communicating with your colleagues and patients. We are dedicated to helping you establish a great career here in America with all the tools and skills you need. 

Aside from finding work opportunities for you, we also prioritize your overall wellness. Allow us to make your journey to the USA hassle-free. Contact us today to learn more! 

References 

1 “Board Approved English Language Proficiency (ELP) Examinations.” PA Department of State, Sept. 2023, www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/Documents/Board%20Documents/Board-Approved-English-Proficiency-Exams.pdf

2 Fokina, Maryia. “The Future of Chatbots: 80+ Chatbot Statistics for 2023.” Tidio, 4 Apr. 2023, www.tidio.com/blog/chatbot-statistics/