The Use of AI in a Pedagogical Environment - Jelena Kovačević

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence has transformed numerous industries, and education is no exception. It is a powerful and valuable tool for educators as it enhances teaching efficiency by automating clerical tasks, allowing educators to focus on meaningful feedback and student interaction. In a pedagogical environment, AI supports personalized learning, streamlines administrative duties, and fosters student engagement. As an experienced educator involved in international projects and EFL teaching, I have explored AI tools to improve language acquisition, assessment, and collaboration. This article provides insights into AI’s role in education, along with examples from my classroom practice.

AI for Personalized Learning

One of the most significant advantages of AI in education is the ability to tailor learning experiences to individual students. Adaptive learning platforms, such as Duolingo and ChatGPT, adjust content difficulty based on students’ responses, ensuring they receive appropriate challenges. Additionally, AI-powered tools like Grammarly and Socratic by Google don’t just highlight errors but offer step-by-step explanations and suggest context-sensitive corrections, supporting independent learning and helping students improve their writing skills progressively. Quizlet uses AI-powered study modes to help students memorize vocabulary and key concepts.

In my EFL classroom, I have used AI-driven vocabulary quizzes, such as Kahoot! and Quizizz. These popular tools create engaging, interactive quizzes, and AI analyzes quiz results to recommend additional learning resources based on individual needs.

Additionally, AI-generated feedback on writing assignments helps students recognize patterns in their errors and refine their skills in a supportive manner.

AI in Language Teaching and Assessment

Building on the personalized learning experience, AI also plays a crucial role in providing immediate, formative feedback through automated assessments.

AI-driven assessment tools provide instant feedback, enabling students to identify and correct their mistakes in real-time. For instance, I have utilized automated essay-scoring platforms, like Turnitin which offers immediate, formative feedback, suggestions for improving clarity and argument strength and provide a score for the essay, with feedback on specific areas.

During a recent project, my students practiced speaking skills using AI-powered voice assistants, which provided pronunciation corrections and suggestions. These tools increase student confidence and reduce the fear of making mistakes in a traditional classroom setting.

Furthermore, I have utilized NaturalReader, a user-friendly platform that converts text to speech and offers multiple voice and language options, plus can adjust the reading speed and voice pitch.

AI in Collaborative Learning and International Projects

Collaboration is essential in modern education, especially in international projects such as Erasmus+. AI-powered translation tools, such as Google Translate, have facilitated communication between students from different linguistic backgrounds. In a recent eTwinning project, my students used AI-driven virtual exchange platforms to connect with peers across Europe, such as Flipgrid, an interactive video platform that allows students to share videos, engage with peers, and collaborate on tasks remotely. It uses AI to help analyze responses, provide feedback on communication skills, and even suggest ways to improve video presentations. Such tools enabled them to share ideas, develop intercultural competencies, and engage in meaningful discussions despite language barriers and foster a global learning community.

AI for Teacher Support and Administrative Efficiency

In addition to enhancing student learning, AI also plays a crucial role in supporting teachers with administrative duties, allowing more time for personalized instruction. Automated grading systems, attendance tracking, and lesson planning tools have streamlined my workload, enabling me to focus on interactive and student-centered activities. AI-powered chatbots also serve as teaching assistants, answering students' common queries and guiding them through learning materials.

Ethical Considerations and Challenges

Despite its benefits, AI in education poses challenges, including data privacy concerns, academic dishonesty, over-reliance on technology, and the risk of diminishing human interaction. To address data privacy concerns, it is essential for educators and institutions to choose AI tools that comply with privacy regulations such as GDPR. Furthermore, balancing AI use with face-to-face interaction will prevent students from becoming overly dependent on technology and potentially lose valuable interpersonal communication skills.

It is crucial to implement AI tools ethically, ensuring student data security and maintaining a balanced approach where technology supplements rather than replaces traditional teaching methods.

Conclusion

AI has immense potential to revolutionize education by personalizing learning, enhancing collaboration, and supporting educators. My experience integrating AI into EFL teaching and international projects demonstrates its ability to engage students, improve language skills, and create a dynamic learning environment. However, educators must use AI thoughtfully, prioritizing student needs and maintaining the essential human connection in teaching. As AI continues to evolve, embracing its possibilities, while being mindful of its limitations, will be key to fostering a successful pedagogical environment.

Written by:

Jelena Kovačević

Ekonomska škola Požega

Croatia