School of Languages at XJTLU Conference 2024

In response to reliability challenges due to COVID-19 lockdowns and advancements in AI, educators are reimagining assessment methodologies. This presentation introduces an innovative intervention designed to address the challenges posed by AI-generated responses in English speaking and listening assessments while promoting learner autonomy. The intervention involves student-led seminars and the development of an assessment instrument aligned with growth mindset principles. Originating from university courses and adapted to an IB inquiry-based learning context, student-led seminars create a student-centred environment, fostering collaborative learning and autonomy. The assessment instrument, evolving through iterative refinement, evaluates student engagement, speaking, and listening skills. The results of action research demonstrate increased observable listening behaviours, improved initiative, and enhanced spoken contributions. The instrument's correlation with external standardized tests adds validity to its assessment role. This work signifies a promising approach to enhance learner autonomy and engagement in diverse academic settings, whilst providing a means of assessment that readily accommodates student use of AI. Our ongoing research is continuing to explore further refinements and applications of the student-led seminar approach and the assessment instrument.