Independent Learning

The 7th CLE Conference on Teaching and Learning, themed "Unleashing the Potential: Leveraging AI and Technology for Effective Language Teaching and Learning", came to a successful close on November 2, 2024. The event was marked by insightful presentations, stimulating discussions, and innovative new ideas.

Organized by the SUSTech Center for Language Education, the conference brought together a diverse group of educators, researchers, and students to explore the latest trends and innovations in language education technology. With a focus on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing teaching and learning practices, the conference aimed to delve deeper into how AI can unlock the full potential of language education.

The morning session began with a warm welcome from Dr. Li Yuan, Director of the Center for Language Education at SUSTech. Professor Fu Danling from the University of Florida delivered the opening keynote on "Translanguaging—Thinking Process and Bilingual Minds in the Era of AI Development", setting the stage for a day full of stimulating content.

Participants explored a variety of topics over the course of the morning, including the development of a collaborative EMI (English as a Medium of Instruction) community in AI-powered higher education, ethical considerations surrounding AI as collaborators in teaching and learning, the navigation of AI use both inside and outside the language learning classroom in China, a cross-cultural perspective on fostering critical thinking in AI-driven language classroom, and a realistic assessment of the limitation of generative AI in editing authentic scientific writing and its implication for teaching.

In the afternoon, the sessions were divided into four panels, each focusing on different aspects of AI and language education. Panelists discussed innovative student-centered approaches, rethinking evaluation through AI, pioneering language education in the AI era, and transformative applications for language education.

A standout moment of the conference was the insightful presentation on innovative ways AI technologies can enhance language learning and teaching. The event also encouraged networking and collaboration, allowing participants to exchange ideas and share best practices. Eight groups of students presented their understanding and experiences of using AI in learning providing a comprehensive picture of the power of AI from the learner’s perspective. In addition, a group students from the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course presented a demonstration of their midterm research project, offering a glimpse into how AI has been integrated into their coursework to enhance their academic writing and research skills.

The conference concluded with panel summaries and a forward-looking discussion on the future of language education empowered by AI. The 7th CLE Conference on Teaching and Learning is seen by the participants as a catalyst for inspiration and transformation in the field, emphasizing the importance of embracing technology and innovation to shape the future of language learning.