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 widespread use of generative AI, exemplified by platforms like ChatGPT, is reshaping linguistic interactions and educational paradigms globally. Recent research has explored the impact of AI on language learning and communication, but has predominantly focused on mainstream English varieties, overlooking the implications for the development of outer circle varieties like Chinese English.
This presentation aims to explore how the widespread use of generative AI will impact the development of Chinese English, shedding light on its potential implications for language education and cross-cultural communication. Through an analysis of current trends in AI-assisted language learning and communication, I will identify key factors shaping the evolution of Chinese English. Using case studies and examples, I will demonstrate how generative AI tools are already influencing language use and expression in Chinese English-speaking communities. Additionally, I will discuss potential future scenarios and challenges posed by AI-driven language generation.
Understanding the impact of generative AI on the development of World Englishes is crucial for educators, policymakers, and language learners alike, as it informs pedagogical approaches, language policy decisions, and intercultural communication strategies. As a linguist and language teacher with a focus on language variation and technology-mediated communication, I bring expertise in both the theoretical frameworks and practical applications relevant to this topic. Attendees can expect to gain insights into the evolving dynamics of Chinese English in the era of generative AI, including potential shifts in vocabulary, syntax, pragmatics, and language attitudes, along with practical implications for language teaching and learning in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
