Cultivating Situational Awareness: Adaptive Strategies for TESOL Educators in the Age of AI

Description:

Prof. Cowin’s address invites K-12 TESOL educators to investigate the significance of situational awareness in contemporary language teaching. The concept of situational awareness will be dissected, underscoring its role in enabling TESOL educators to perceive, interpret, and respond effectively to the dynamic interplay between multilingual student needs, exponential technologies, and evolving pedagogical practices.

The plenary will analyze practical strategies for integrating recent pedagogical research and technology adoption in language teaching and learning. Examples of these strategies include adaptive lesson planning, leveraging technology for individualized instruction, and fostering a culturally responsive classroom environment. Additionally, this session will examine the dual implications of digital tools in language education, discussing how technology can enhance accessibility and individualization while also potentially exacerbating educational disparities. Drawing from current case studies and empirical data, successful practices will be highlighted, limitations identified, and ethical considerations related to technology use in diverse multilingual K-12 educational settings discussed.

In conclusion, this plenary address emphasizes the importance of situational awareness in language education and highlights the need for TESOL educators to navigate the evolving pedagogical landscape with a critical eye. By examining the implications of AI trends such as robot teachers, voice cloning, and digital twin technology, the plenary address will shed light on the potential risks and advantages associated with these innovations. Ultimately, the address aims to empower TESOL educators with the knowledge, resources, and confidence necessary to create inclusive and effective learning environments that promote student success in the age of AI.