Enhancing Language Communicative Competence Through AI-Powered Learning

Miffy Tsai, Ed.D. (candidate), Chinese Studies, Davidson College

The unprecedented advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has opened new frontiers in language education. AI shows promise in language learning, with studies demonstrating 50% faster learning speeds and 30% higher retention rates compared to traditional methods (Xia et al., 2024). This seminar explores how AI tools can enhance students’ communicative competence in second language acquisition, which comprises four essential components: grammatical, sociolinguistic, discourse, and strategic competence (Canale & Swain, 1980).

This seminar will explore how language teachers and teachers of Multilingual Learners can utilize AI tools to facilitate language learning in and outside of classrooms to effectively reduce language barriers and improve overall communication abilities. The expected outcomes of this seminar are as follows:

  • 1. Provide insights into integrating AI tools in language education, offering practical recommendations for educators and institutions.
  • 2. Demonstrate specific AI-powered activities and assignments that target each component of communicative competence, helping educators design more effective language learning experiences.
  • 3. Present strategies for using AI tools to create personalized learning paths that address individual students’ communicative challenges and learning styles.
  • 4. Share best practices for balancing AI-assisted learning with traditional teaching methods to maximize student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • 5. Outline assessment strategies for measuring improvements in communicative competence when using AI tools.
  • 6. Discuss potential challenges and limitations of implementing AI tools in language education, along with practical solutions.
  • 7. Provide a framework for creating an AI-enhanced language learning environment that promotes authentic communication and cultural understanding.
  • 8. Share resources and tools for ongoing professional development in AI-enhanced language teaching.