Keynote Speaker: Dr. Feng Xiao
Dr. Feng Xiao is an associate professor of Asian Languages and Literatures at Pomona College and a co-founder of Luduan.ai. His research interests include applied linguistics, pragmatics, and AI-supported language education. His recent publications appeared in referred journals such as The Modern Language Journal and Studies in Second Language Acquisition and serves as a reviewer for over a dozen leading journals in the field, including The Modern Language Journal, Studies in Second Language Acquisition, and Language Learning. Since 2015, he has received multiple research grants and teaching awards, such as the Language Learning Dissertation Award (2015), the Andrew Mellon Foundation Digital Humanities Grant (2016–2019), the Henry Luce Foundation Teaching Innovation Award (2020), and the Hirsch Family Research Initiative Grant (2021–2023). In 2023, his research team developed Luduan.ai, an AI-based multilingual learning platform.
Keynote Title: Applications Are All We Need: Small Language Models and Language Education
This presentation first explores the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), with a focus on the rise of large language models (LLMs) since 2017. It then synthesizes insights from over 100 empirical studies on AI and language learning (1990–2024) to highlight the benefits of AI-supported language education, such as personalized learning and enhanced engagement. The discussion advocates for adopting smaller, task- and domain-specific language models, which offer targeted solutions for educational needs. By balancing scalability and specialization, these models can improve cost efficiency, accessibility, and ethical implementation. The presentation aims to provide practical strategies for leveraging AI to enhance language learning outcomes effectively.
Workshop Facilitator: Nicholas Swinehart
Nicholas Swinehart is the Managing Director of Instructional Technology at the University of Chicago Language Center, where he supports instructors of over fifty languages with technology use and professional development. He is co-editor of the February, 2024 CALICO Journal special issue on social media for language learning and is co-author of Teaching Languages in Blended Synchronous Classrooms: A Practical Guide (2020). In the summer of 2023 he taught a mini-course titled ChatGPT and Generative AI for Language Teachers for instructors across the country.
Workshop Title: Seven Generative AI Prompts for World Language Teachers
In this workshop, participants will be guided to explore various uses of generative AI in world language teaching by using, modifying, and expanding upon seven prompt templates. No previous experience is necessary. Participants should come prepared to use a generative AI application like ChatGPT or Copilot on a laptop or mobile device. More information will be sent out after registering.