We find ourselves at a pivotal moment where the role of generative AI and other technological tools is reshaping the way we teach and learn languages. The question that lies before us is not whether these innovations will shape the future, but rather how we, as educators, will harness their potential to create meaningful and effective language instruction.
The title of our conference, No Fate: The Future is Not Set, underscores our belief that the future is not predetermined. We hope that our conference will serve both as a platform for collaboration and a catalyst for change as it is via the collective effort of educators, researchers, and innovators that the trajectory of language teaching and learning will be determined. By fostering collaboration, sharing insights, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible, we can shape the future of language education.
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has sparked widespread interest, which has been largely driven by its capability to have a transformative impact on teaching and learning. Practitioners, some wholeheartedly and some hesitantly, have adopted AI technology to enrich students’ educational experiences. An area that I targeted as part of my AI adoption process has been equipping learners with essential Assessment for Learning (AfL) and Assessment as Learning (AaL) strategies.
This presentation elucidates the pivotal role AI can play in scaffolding EAP (English for Academic Purposes) instruction and empowering university students to become not only proficient English users but also effective learners in general. Through AI tools, educators can guide students on a positive and proactive learning path, providing tailored support and fostering a culture of self-regulated learning.
The presentation will also showcase the tangible benefits of integrating AI tools into the educational landscape, offering in-class and out-of-class formative feedback and self-assessment opportunities. Specific examples of AfL and AaL strategies will highlight how the potential of AI to enable personalised support and real-time feedback and how it facilitates reflective practices to enhance students’ skills.
Furthermore, the presentation will illustrate how AI has the potential to automate AfL and AaL strategies, nurture a culture of self-regulated learning and empower students to take charge of their academic journey. Emphasising the broader impact on academic success, particularly in EAP modules, the use of AI technology holds promise for students' overall educational advancement.
