2025 Spring IWL Faculty Retreat

AI in Action: Discoveries and Insights in World Language Education

9:30AM-3PM on Friday, May 2, 2025

Language Commons (298 New Cabell Hall)

Committee: Miao-fen Tseng, Spyridon Simotas, Matthew Street, and Yoon Hwa Choi

9:30-10AM: Breakfast & Social Gathering

10-10:10AM: Opening Remarks by Alison Levine, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Professor of French

10:10-10:50AM: From Research to Reality: AI-Enhanced TBLT and Student Testimonies

Abstract: This presentation highlights the design and results of an action research study within a task-based curricular framework in Pre-advanced Chinese. By exploring Copilot as a student tutor, the study investigates its impact on learning through a process-driven approach.   Specifically, it examines how Chinese language learners use Copilot to assist their learning and their attitudes towards it as a self-learning tool in a semester-long AI-empowered classroom. Students who participated in the study will share their experiences and perspectives in a recorded video.

Presenter: Miao-fen Tseng

11AM-12PM: Innovating Language Instruction with AI: Tools, Strategies, and Insight

Abstract: This panel explores how AI is being integrated into language instruction through innovative classroom applications that enhance student engagement, linguistic proficiency, and personalized learning. Presenters will showcase AI-driven strategies such as interactive conversational tools, AI-assisted grading, real-time formative feedback, and student-generated assignments. By examining real-world case studies and classroom experiences, panelists will discuss both the benefits and challenges of incorporating AI into language teaching. Topics include AI as a tutor and evaluator, its role in improving spoken language practice, and best practices for balancing AI tools with human-centered instruction. Attendees will gain practical insights and adaptable strategies to integrate AI effectively into their teaching, fostering dynamic, student-centered learning environments.

Presenters: Shu-chen Chen, Mieko Kawai, Stella Mattioli, Esther Poveda, and Ran Zhao 

Moderator: Matthew Street

12-1PM: Lunch and Social Gathering

1-2PM: Reflecting on Language Learning in the World with AI: Experiments, Insights, and Potential Curricular Adaptations

Abstract: This panel will present and discuss small-scale experiments with AI in language classrooms. Panelists, who also serve as AI Faculty Guides in their departments, will share insights on how their interventions have impacted learning. Additionally, drawing from their experiences facilitating AI literacy discussions and workshops with colleagues in their respective departments, the panelists will explore key questions: What communicative skills should we prioritize in language instruction when AI can handle many transactional interactions that have traditionally driven communicative approaches? What are the implications for our pedagogical practices? How might we adapt our curricula to reflect these changes and remain relevant in a time of unprecedented technological advancement?

Presenters: Nicole Bonino, Anna Borovskaya - Ellis, Suad Mohamed, Spyridon Simotas, and Jun Wang

Moderator: Spyridon Simotas  

2:10-2:40PM: Student Voices on AI in Language Learning

Abstract: Students representing various world languages will share their unique learning experiences with AI-based language teaching tools. They will present their reflections on how these technologies have impacted their language acquisition. This session aims to provide valuable insights from the student perspectives, highlighting the benefits of integrating AI and constructive suggestions for language educators and learners.

Presenters: John Nickless, Helen Bedsole, Luke Crafton, Marco Gori, Kasia-Esmeralda Wasiak，

Savannah Vaughan, and Lucas Yerton

Moderator: Yoon Hwa Choi

2:40-3PM: Reflections, Looking Forwards, and Announcements