Transforming ESL Teaching and Learning in the AI Era

Transforming ESL Teaching and Learning in the AI Era
Bio: Dr. Hao-Jan Howard Chen is a distinguished Professor in the Department of English at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), Taipei. He received his Ph.D. in Language Education from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996. His research interests include computer-assisted and technology-enhanced language learning, corpus linguistics, and second language acquisition. He has led projects on AI-supported writing and speaking tools and published widely in journals such as CALL Journal and ReCALL, contributing to the use of AI and language technologies in English education in Taiwan.

Abstract: This presentation showcases Taiwan’s national efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into English education through Cool English, a free learning platform developed by National Taiwan Normal University with Ministry of Education support. Serving over 2.5 million users, the platform incorporates AI across five key areas: (1) automated speech recognition and feedback for pronunciation and fluency; (2) AI-based chatbots for real-time spoken interaction; (3) AI-enhanced writing assistants offering grammar correction and bilingual feedback; (4) AI-infused teaching resources supporting lesson planning and material creation; and (5) AI-supported assessment tools for speaking, writing, and vocabulary. Powered by technologies such as ChatGPT, Whisper, and Microsoft Speech services, these innovations enhance learner engagement and assessment accuracy while empowering teachers with adaptive and creative tools. This talk highlights how AI-driven systems transform Taiwan’s EFL learning landscape through accessibility, personalization, and data-informed language instruction.