Title: AI in the classroom – Friend or Foe for ESOL teachers (followed by WATESOL AGM)
Speaker: Stephanie Layec
Abstract
As teachers, we need to understand AI tools, learn to use them to make our lives easier, and teach our students how to use them wisely and reference their use of AI tools. AI, or Artificial Intelligence, has the potential to be a valuable resource for ESOL teachers. It can assist in language translation, provide personalized learning experiences, and offer real-time feedback to students. AI can analyze students’ language proficiency levels and tailor instructional materials, accordingly, helping ESOL teachers meet the diverse needs of their students while creating interesting resources. However, it is crucial for teachers to be aware of the potential misuse of AI in the classroom. They must be vigilant in ensuring student privacy and data security, as well as promoting critical thinking and ethical use of AI technology. By harnessing the power of AI responsibly, ESOL teachers can enhance their teaching practices and empower their students in the digital age.
Biodata
Stephanie Layec loves to embrace change and explore new ideas. In 2018 she completed the Post-graduate Certificate in Digital Collaboration – Applied Practice with The Mind Lab at UNITEC. It transformed her vision of what teaching must be and how we, as educators, must help develop those 21st Century skills and enhance collaboration and computational thinking. The pandemic highlighted the need for educators to be creative, adaptive and seize new opportunities. Stephanie is currently co-chair of AKTESOL and Head of ESOL & Languages at Macleans College. She is starting to see a lot of emails and/or work from her ESOL students which look suspiciously well written. AI is overtaking education, whether we like it or not. As teachers, she believes we must learn to live with it and use its power to open new possibilities.