FLS Owner, BA in English language and French Philosophy, Master’s degree in Special Education and Psychology
In today’s rapidly advancing educational landscape, technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming the way we teach and learn. For EFL teachers, integrating these tools offers numerous benefits, from personalized learning experiences to enhanced engagement and streamlined classroom management. There are several practical ways in which EFL teachers can incorporate both technology and AI into their classrooms at various educational levels.
Pronunciation and speaking fluency are common challenges for EFL learners. Technology and AI offer innovative solutions to help students improve these skills.
- Speech Recognition Tools: AI-powered tools like Elsa Speak and Google Read Along analyze students' speech in real-time and provide instant feedback on pronunciation. Teachers can incorporate these tools into lessons by assigning speaking exercises and encouraging students to practise independently outside of class.
- Voice-Activated Assistants: Technology like Google Assistant can be used for real-world conversational practice. Teachers can create activities where students interact with voice assistants, helping them develop their speaking skills in natural settings and acquire self-confidence regarding their speaking skills.
Building a strong vocabulary is essential in language learning, and both technology and AI offer valuable tools for vocabulary development.
- Adaptive Learning Platforms: AI-driven platforms like Lingvist and Babbel personalize vocabulary lessons based on individual student performance, ensuring that students are constantly challenged but not overwhelmed. Teachers can integrate these platforms into classroom activities, so as to make the lesson more playful and intriguing.
- Digital Flashcards and Games: Platforms such as Quizlet and Anki provide customizable flashcards for vocabulary practice. Educators can use these tools to create sets that can adjust to their lessons and track student progress. Additionally, game-based learning tools like Kahoot! make vocabulary acquisition more interactive and enjoyable.
Writing is a critical component of language learning, and both AI and traditional technology can offer support by providing immediate feedback and helping students improve their writing skills.
- Writing Assistance Tools: Should AI-driven tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid be used appropriately, they can help students improve grammar, style, and coherence in their writing. For instance, teachers can ask students to submit drafts to these tools before handing them in for formal grading, ensuring that students receive feedback on areas that need improvement.
- Automated Writing Evaluation: Tools such as Turnitin’s Revision Assistant use AI to evaluate writing, offering suggestions on grammar, structure, and clarity. Teachers can use these tools to provide quick, detailed feedback, allowing students to revise their work efficiently.
Listening comprehension is often challenging for students, particularly when they are exposed to various accents and speech speeds. Technology and AI can make these tasks easier by offering tailored listening exercises.
- AI-Generated Transcripts and Subtitles: Tools like Otter.ai automatically generate transcripts for audio and video content, helping students follow along. Teachers can use these transcripts during lessons to reinforce comprehension, giving students the opportunity to read and listen simultaneously.
- Personalized Listening Platforms: AI-powered platforms such as LingQ and Speechling adapt to each student’s proficiency level, gradually increasing the difficulty of listening exercises. Educators can integrate these tools into their classes to provide individualized listening practice.
Technology and AI can also streamline classroom management and administrative tasks, allowing teachers to focus more on teaching and less on administrative work.
- Automated Grading Systems: Platforms like Google Classroom and GradeScope automate the grading of quizzes, vocabulary tests, and other assessments. These tools save teachers time and provide students with quick and objective feedback.
- Student Progress Tracking: Tools like Edmodo and Kahoot! help teachers track student performance in real time. By analyzing students’ responses, these platforms provide valuable insights into areas where students may need extra help, allowing teachers to adjust lesson plans accordingly.
With the shift toward hybrid and remote learning, technology has become essential for maintaining effective communication and engagement in virtual classrooms.
- Video Conferencing Tools: Platforms like Zoom, Google Meet or other custom-made ones (like Leoutsakou Classrooms, the platform especially made for my FL School) are essential for virtual lessons. Teachers can use these platforms for live teaching, breakout discussions, and interactive activities, ensuring that students remain engaged and motivated even in a remote setting.
- Interactive Learning Platforms: Tools like Nearpod and Padlet enable students to interact with lesson content, answer questions in real time, and collaborate with their peers. These platforms make learning more dynamic and allow for immediate feedback and assessment.
The integration of both technology and AI into the EFL classroom presents exciting opportunities for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. From improving pronunciation and writing to providing personalized listening and vocabulary practice, these tools offer a wide range of possibilities. By thoughtfully incorporating these technologies, EFL teachers can better address the needs of their students, offer personalized learning experiences, and streamline classroom management. As technology continues to evolve, its role in language education will only grow, helping both teachers and students reach their full potential.
