Navigating the Future of Language Education: From Generative AI to Cyber-Physical Learning
By Dr Sean McMinn
In a world marked by technological advancement and societal transformation, practitioners of language education are experiencing challenges to how, what, and why we teach and assess languages. For example, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, not only have the potential to disrupt how we teach languages, but also how we might facilitate self-access learning. As we navigate these changes, a critical consideration arises: Should language education be value-based, competency-based, proficiency-based, or a harmonious combination of these? This fundamental question guides the pursuit of pedagogical innovation, influencing the design and delivery of educational experiences. And with these new innovations comes the need for educators to think about new processes and strategies. This talk will explore the essence of innovation in language education, transcending traditional boundaries to consider new approaches to teaching and learning, while being mindful of how technologies are also influencing self-regulatory learning strategies. A particular focus is placed on the emergence of Generative AI, a groundbreaking development that offers opportunities for creativity, personalisation, and engagement within the learning process, but also comes with ethical and equity implications. Cyber-Physical Learning (CPL) is also highlighted as a holistic design approach that combines pedagogy and technology in disruptive yet efficient ways, seamlessly integrating cyber and physical experiences.
About the speaker
Dr Sean McMinn is the Director of the Center for Education Innovation at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Prior to this role, he was an Associate Professor and the Director of the English Language Centre at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University from 2020-2022. He was an Associate Professor of Language Education and an Associate Director in the Center for Language Education at HKUST and the Co-Academic Director for the Master of Arts in International Language Education (MA-ILE) program. He won the 2016 SHSS Teaching Excellence Award and the 2007 Teaching Innovation Award for his work with podcasts and education at HKUST. He has also taken a visible role as an early-adopter of new technologies for teaching and learning purposes. This includes leading the various centers in developing AI in education initiatives, blended learning, and fully-online mode for teaching and learning.
