What you will learn

The world is changing rapidly, and with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there are new opportunities for engagement and creativity in teaching and learning. That’s why we’ve designed a workshop specifically for language teachers – to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to harness the full potential of AI.

But let’s be clear, AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every teacher and student is unique, with their own interests and needs. In this workshop, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive range of AI-powered tools to explore and experiment with, so you can discover what works best for you and your learners.

We’ll delve into the topic of AI and its rapid growth. You’ll learn about the various AI tools available that can be useful for both teachers and learners. But we won’t stop there. We’ll also approach AI with nuance and an awareness of its limitations, so you can make informed decisions about what tools to use and when.

We’ll explore why using AI is beneficial for teachers and learners and examine the advantages of AI, such as personalised learning, immediate feedback, and increased engagement, among others. But more importantly, we’ll focus on a principled approach to choosing and using AI tools that address your and your students’ needs.

Finally, we’ll tackle the question of how to use AI. Our workshop will provide hands-on experience with a range of AI-powered tools, including text-to-image, text-to-speech, and text-to-video. You’ll learn how to use these tools effectively to create engaging content that inspires and motivates your learners. From creating characters to generating text and transforming it into speech, you’ll learn how to combine it all into a video. Plus, we’ll provide tips on how to use these tools with your learners.

In summary, our workshop is not just about AI. It’s about equipping teachers with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools they need to leverage AI effectively.

Workshop Summary

Introduction to AI in Education:

Lana, an experienced educator, introduces the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in teaching and learning in her Gallery Teachers Masterclass. The session explores the diverse world of AI and its potential to enhance engagement and creativity in the educational realm. Lana emphasises that AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution but provides a variety of tools to experiment with to discover what best meets the unique needs of each learner and educator.

Understanding Artificial Intelligence:

Artificial Intelligence is a computer system that learns from experience, just like humans. It analyses data, recognises patterns and adapts behaviour in various situations. AI is integrated into our everyday lives, from navigation maps and facial recognition in smartphones to algorithms tailoring our social media experiences. AI platforms like YouTube, Grammarly, and AI tools like Google Assistant and Alexa, enhance our interactions with the world.

The Role of AI in Teaching and Learning:

AI is a powerful asset in teaching and learning, assisting with tasks from grading exams to personalising learning experiences based on student performance data. By providing immediate, meaningful feedback, AI encourages students to take risks and learn from their mistakes without fear of judgement. For example, Duolingo, a language learning app, allows learners to set their own goals and customise their learning experience using AI.

Incorporating AI Tools in Teaching:

Despite the availability of AI tools, their effectiveness depends on thoughtful, purposeful application. Teachers must align the use of AI tools with their teaching goals, considering their unique needs and the unique requirements of their learning environment. AI tools can address various ‘pain points’ in teaching, from managing multilevel classes to sourcing suitable materials, but teachers should start with small implementations and gradually increase AI tool usage.

The Potential of Large Language Models:

Large Language Models (LLMs) are AI tools that generate content based on given data. Although they lack an inherent understanding of truth or falsehood, they can be useful in generating custom learning materials. LLMs can modify text based on tasks, summarise texts, highlight key points, and even generate new sentences. They can also correct and provide feedback on learners’ work, albeit within their limitations.

Innovative Ways of Using AI Tools:

Turning the check-in process into an interactive learning experience with AI tools can enhance learner engagement. AI tools like Chargeability can be used to correct students’ errors, while text-to-speech tools like 11 Labs can serve as personal storytellers, particularly helpful for special needs students and language learners. Learners can participate in creating learning materials by writing a short story and converting it into speech using AI. Text video software can convert written ideas into visual stories.

The Future of AI in Education

AI holds immense potential for teachers in customising learning experiences, analysing student performance, providing tailored feedback, and assisting with administrative tasks. It offers access to authentic language data, crafting more compelling language learning experiences. However, the key is choosing the right AI tools for your teaching and learning needs, focusing on the needs of your students, and experimenting with the tools to find the best fit.

Reflective Questions

Have a quick think about the reflective questions below in order to get the most out of the workshop:

1. How familiar are you with AI tools available today?
2. In what ways do you think AI can enhance your teaching practice?
3. What concerns or reservations do you have about using AI in your teaching, and how might you address them?
4. What are your goals for attending this workshop, and how do you hope to apply what you learn?

Recommended Further Reading

• Kandybovich, S. (2023a) AI-assisted language instruction: Useful links – ELT-cation, ELT. Available at: https://eltcation.myenglishdomain.com/2023/01/31/ai-assisted-language-instruction-useful-links/.
• Kandybovich, S. (2023b) CHATGPT & its uses in language teaching: Webinar with Scott Thornbury, presentation slides, prompts, Links & More – ELT-cation, ELT. Available at: https://eltcation.myenglishdomain.com/2023/02/23/chatgpt-prompts-links-more/.
• Kandybovich, S. (2023c) CHATGPT prompts for language teachers – ELT-cation, ELT. Available at: https://eltcation.myenglishdomain.com/2023/01/09/chatgpt-prompts-for-language-teachers/.