Department of Germanic Languages & Literatures University of Toronto
by Stefana Gargova, Language Coordinator
Open AI released ChatGPT on November 30th, 2022, and six days later it was announced that it had reached 1 million users. Ever since, access to AI has become ubiquitous and post-secondary institutions have adopted a rather sober and practical attitude, encouraging teachers to explore its pedagogical applications. For the field of language acquisition, this isn’t a huge stretch – studies show that AI can be effective in extending practice, as well as supporting instructors in developing customizable teaching materials. As part of the German Department’s ongoing efforts to support the professional development of our language instructors, we were delighted to welcome Marje Zschiesche-Stock, an international professional development trainer with 10+ years of experience, who led a two-hour workshop with the poignant title “O.K. or K.O.? The use of AI in the Second Language Classroom”, which presented meaningful and creative ways to productively integrate AI into language teaching with added value. Participants enjoyed not only the invigorating social aspect of the in-person event, but also the hands-on activities, which introduced AI-based strategies for authentic language interactions, descriptive picture-based activities, as well as practice support that extends well beyond the classroom. Zschiesche-Stock’s workshop offered our instructors an opportunity to critically engage with AI not as a shortcut, but as a resource that has the potential to enrich language learning, when used strategically and intentionally.
