School of Educational Sciences
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The School of Educational Sciences Holds a Dialogue Seminar on "Teaching English in the Age of Artificial Intelligence" and Highlights the Role of Technology in Enhancing Education

The School of Educational Sciences at the University of Jordan organized a dialogue seminar on "Teaching English in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," presented by Dr. Hanfoo Mai, a Fulbright Visiting Professor at the University of Illinois Springfield and an expert in the applications of artificial intelligence in education. The seminar brought together School members and students as part of the School's ongoing efforts to support and enhance English language learning in light of rapid technological changes. It also aimed to help students adapt to the demands of the modern job market, in alignment with educational ethics and societal needs. The seminar was coordinated and moderated by Dr. Sahar Abu Helo, Assistant Dean for International Accreditation and Global Rankings.

 
Dr. Mai began the seminar by providing an overview of how artificial intelligence has evolved to become a key educational tool in the modern digital world. He emphasized that AI can significantly contribute to enhancing self-directed learning, especially in the development of English language skills. He pointed out that AI technologies, such as translation applications and linguistic analysis tools, offer learners new opportunities to practice the language and improve their interaction with educational content.
 
Dr. Mai explained that educational technology helps create a dynamic learning environment, encouraging active student participation and continuous interaction, which leads to the development of critical and creative thinking skills. He added that smart tools offer personalized learning experiences that adapt to individual learner needs, providing access to diverse content in various formats, such as text, audio, or video. This variety of resources is an effective way to enhance students' listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills.
 
Dr. Mai stressed the importance of mastering the English language as it is the global language of science and technology. He clarified that the ability to engage with smart tools and leverage AI applications in various fields requires a sufficient command of the English language. He also explained that linguistic knowledge helps individuals access global scientific and technological knowledge, enabling them to compete effectively in the job market and adapt flexibly to the challenges of the digital economy.
 
He further warned about the limitations of AI, noting that while AI tools can provide instant translation and facilitate communication, they may fall short of conveying deep understanding and subtle human meanings. Dr. Mai explained that mastering a language requires knowledge of culture, style, and context—elements that AI tools are not fully capable of providing. Therefore, he emphasized that reliance on technology for language learning should be supplementary to traditional learning methods, rather than a complete substitute.
 
At the end of the seminar, Dr. Mai encouraged students to make use of smart tools to practice English and develop the language skills necessary for success in the digital age. He also highlighted the role of schools and universities in offering educational programs based on technology, while ensuring ethical and professional guidelines for the safe and responsible use of AI. Dr. Mai stressed the importance of preparing English language teachers to guide students in using smart tools and create an interactive learning environment that combines traditional teaching methods with modern technology. He also called for supporting educational research, particularly in studying the impact of AI on language learning and understanding deep linguistic skills.



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15 Nov, 2024