From Chalkboards to Chatbots: Making technology meet pedagogy
Alexandra Covaci
Summary
I have spent twenty years teaching, moving from traditional chalkboards to thoughtfully integrating AI, particularly chatbots, into English language instruction. My goal is to use technology to enhance, not replace, human-centered pedagogy, fostering student autonomy and critical thinking. I used AI chatbots as "speaking buddies" for Cambridge exam preparation. Students engaged with the chatbots, analyzing their responses for useful vocabulary and grammar, which promoted active listening and peer learning. This activity built a shared vocabulary and also encouraged independent interaction, modeling ethical AI use. I believe that while our tools evolve, the purpose of education is to enrich human interaction.
Biodata
I am currently the Director of Studies at a Cambridge Preparation centre in southern Italy, alongside my roles as a Cambridge Speaking examiner at Oxford-International House in Lecce and an English language assistant at the University of Salento.
Presentation Details
Type of presentation: Talk
The presentation is for: Inexperienced audience
The presentation focuses on: Various
The session is: Practical solutions presentation / exchange of practical ideas
Category: Learning Technology
Presentation is commercial: No
Speaking on behalf of a publisher, examination board, or commercial organisation? No
Scheduled for
Date: Friday, 2025-09-19, 18:30 - 19:00
Place: Seminar/Lab