Category Archives: AI

Is AI the future of language Education?


Written by - Ken Beatty, Canada

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Introduction

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education is rapidly evolving, positioning itself as a transformative force with immense potential to shape teaching and learning practices. Just as calculators and computers revolutionized mathematics and science, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools are poised to become integral to writing and other aspects of education (Meakin, 2024).

The rise of artificial intelligence

The past few years have witnessed explosive growth in AI tools across various domains, including language teaching and learning. These tools leverage advanced algorithms to assist with tasks ranging from content generation to personalized learning experiences. According to Fisher (2023), large language models (LLMs) are trained on extensive datasets of text and code,  Continue Reading →

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AI, Conference
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Better AI prompts for essay grading: Enhancing educational practices


Written by - Joseph Ng, Canada

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Abstract

This article adapts a TechKnow presentation with the same title and by the same author from the 2024 TESL Ontario Conference. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational contexts, particularly essay grading, presents both opportunities and challenges. This article explores the limitations of traditional essay grading methods, the ethical considerations of using generative AI for assessment, and practical strategies for implementing AI prompts effectively. By focusing on the implications for educators, students, and the broader educational landscape, this article aims to provide insights into the future of essay grading in the context of AI technology.

Introduction

As educational institutions increasingly adopt technology to enhance teaching and learning experiences,  Continue Reading →

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AI, Conference, Technology
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Utilizing the affordances of an AI bot to facilitate a grammar lesson in an EAP classroom


Written by - Plamen Kushkiev, Canada

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Purpose

In this article, I critically analyze the integration of an artificial intelligence (AI) bot known as Pi (Personal Intelligence), introduced by Inflection AI in May 2023. The insights and implications that I share in this essay represent my observations and reflections as an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) professor at a public college in Ontario. These are not meant to present the results of a formal study but to create a dialogic space to problematize and conceptualize the applicability of Pi as a personal assistant bot to both the professor and intermediate-level EAP learners during in-person class activities. Although the bot has also been used for pedagogical and interaction purposes in class and as part of specific home assignments,  Continue Reading →

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AI, EAP, ESL, Language
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Wax on. Wax off.


Written by - Jen Artan

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“Your first draft isn’t an unoriginal idea expressed clearly; it’s an original idea expressed poorly, and it is accompanied by your amorphous dissatisfaction, your awareness of the distance between what it says and what you want it to say.” (Chiang, 2023)

The rise of ChatGPT

Students have always been the subject matter expert in cutting corners; if a new tool or technology gives them the edge, they will take it.

When the internet emerged, educators prophesied the end of originality. They pondered how plagiarism will now exist on an entirely new plain. The teachers had a point. The internet made it super easy for essay mills to exist and recruit customers.  Continue Reading →

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AI, EAL, EAP, ESL, Language, Writing
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The rise of random task generators in language learning: Embracing the era of randomness


Written by - Alexander Popov

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With the advent of online platforms and resources, English language teaching is undergoing a remarkable transformation. In recent years, researchers have become increasingly concerned that modern educational systems are not stressing higher-order and abstract thinking enough, resulting in a decline in human IQs. A new luminary has emerged to meet these challenges: random task generators. The use of these platforms has revolutionized language learning, stimulating creativity, critical thinking, and authentic language use.

Higher-order thinking, which goes beyond mere memorization and recall, is crucial for fostering intellectual growth. Bloom’s Taxonomy (Lasley 2023) provides a framework that encourages learners to progress through levels of thinking, from basic understanding to more advanced abilities like analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Abstract thinking,  Continue Reading →

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AI, ESL, Language, Other
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