AI reshapes university language classrooms

Across higher education, language lecturers are experimenting with AI to create materials, support speaking practice and meet diverse student needs.
From curriculum design to pronunciation feedback, AI tools are finding a role in language classrooms, though educators warn technology alone cannot deliver fluency.

Universities are increasingly integrating AI into foreign language teaching as lecturers search for more flexible and personalised learning methods. AI-powered tools are being used to generate teaching materials, adapt content to student needs and expand practice beyond classroom limits.

Despite growing interest, adoption among language lecturers remains uneven across higher education. Studies suggest AI-supported learning can improve student motivation by offering personalised feedback and judgment-free speaking practice.

Educators highlight the value of AI for supporting curriculum and creating resources, particularly for less commonly taught languages. Tools can generate targeted dialogues, simplified texts and pronunciation feedback that would otherwise require significant manual effort.

Human interaction, however, remains central to effective language learning. Lecturers stress that AI works best as a supplement, enhancing teaching quality without replacing real-world communication and pedagogical expertise.

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