MODULE 2

                            

                        

    In this module, we discussed the pros and cons of using artificial intelligence (AI) in English language teaching and education in general. We focused on how we should approach AI carefully, considering that it can be both our friend and our foe, depending on its use. AI can be beneficial if used properly for educational purposes, but it can become a problem if we become too dependent on it. We also explore some people's fear of losing originality with the use of AI and the importance of effective use of technology in teaching.

    On the other hand, in this module we also studied gamification, which involves more than simply using games; it's about creating a game-like learning experience, with objectives, rewards, and challenges. The difference between game-based learning and using games as teaching tools is also mentioned.

    In addition, we also discussed authentic materials, and their advantages and disadvantages were explored because creativity and innovative approaches are essential for using these materials effectively and technology helps us select and adapt these resources according to our needs.

    Finally, we learned to use a wide variety of applications and tools powered by artificial intelligence that are fundamental for teaching the English language in its four main skills: speaking, listening, writing, and reading. We became familiar with various resources that not only facilitate teaching and learning but also allow for more dynamic and effective interaction between students and teachers.

    At the end of the module, we obtained a particularly fascinating piece of knowledge: creating bots on platforms such as poe.com and Cody. This learning turned out to be very interesting and valuable, as it allowed us to develop a virtual assistant capable of providing specific help to students in various subjects.

Development (Reflection on key concepts) 

    In this course, I learned several important topics that are changing education today. One of them was how AI can positively and negatively affect our learning. AI can adapt to how each student learns, like a personalized tutor, making school management more efficient and providing quick feedback. However, there are also concerns about the excessive use of AI and its ethical implications, as well as potential over-reliance on machines.

    We discussed whether AI is a friend or foe in education. On the other hand, smart tools can make learning more fun and effective. But they can also make students more lazy or likely to copy, rather than think for themselves. It is crucial to educate students about the responsible and creative use of AI.

    We explored gamification, which turns learning into a game with objectives and rewards, motivating students. We also talk about using authentic materials in language learning, such as television shows or popular music, that show real language use.

    In terms of improving student writing, we discussed how AI can generate ideas, correct errors, and find reliable sources for academic papers. It is important that students use these tools intelligently, without depending on them too much.

    We discussed how to create lesson plans with guided activities to develop skills such as writing, speaking, reading, or listening with the help of AI, implementing various specialized tools and applications.

    Finally, we address the importance of developing educational bots to help students practice and get quick information on specific topics. These resources are essential to improve the learning process and facilitate access to information efficiently.

    These concepts challenged my previous understanding of English language learning due to the large number of terms that I was completely unaware of or had understood incorrectly. For example, when "authentic material" was mentioned, I initially thought it referred to resources specifically designed for language teaching. However, I discovered that it is exactly the opposite: it refers to any material that is not designed for direct educational purposes, such as songs, television shows, or everyday conversations. This concept was totally new to me and represented a significant challenge. Now I clearly understand its meaning and how we can take advantage of it to improve language learning.

    Another concept that surprised me was "gamification". Initially, I thought it was just about playing games to make learning more entertaining. However, I learned that gamification involves using game elements to motivate and reward learning, with specific goals and clear benefits at the end of the process. This new understanding made me think about how I perceived the use of games in learning and how they can be effective tools when applied correctly.

    I plan to apply the concepts learned in this module in several ways in my future teaching. My perspective on how to teach has changed, and I believe it is essential to take advantage of all the tools available today. Artificial intelligence is transforming education, and we must adapt and learn to use it responsibly to obtain the best results.

    During this module, I discovered many applications and platforms that will be very useful:

    Elsa Speak and Emma: I will use these applications in my classes so that students practice their speaking and pronunciation. I can ask them to use them to prepare before a presentation or interview, which not only improves their skills but also motivates them to practice more at home.

    Brisk: This app is great for creating lesson plans on specific topics. I can ask Brisk to generate a plan about the present perfect, review it, and make any necessary adjustments. Additionally, Brisk allows me to create presentations and leave writing activities for my students, giving them personalized feedback.

    Eduaide and Magic School: These tools help me design lesson plans and interactive activities, combining them to make my classes more interesting and effective.

    Heygen: With this tool, I can create avatars or videos about specific topics, such as climate change, and then discuss questions related to the video with my students. This captures their attention and makes learning more engaging.

    Thanks to all the tools I learned to use in this module, I can create dynamic and fun activities that will facilitate learning and motivate students to actively participate in their education. These tools will allow me to make my classes more interactive, attractive and effective, ensuring better learning for my students.

Conclusion and key learnings 

    The knowledge gained in this module will significantly influence my teaching methods. AI and its tools have strengthened my way of teaching. I will implement learning techniques and integrate technological tools to facilitate interactive learning. With the knowledge acquired, I will be able to design more effective classes, use clear rubrics to evaluate assignments, and adapt my teaching to the needs of my students, promoting an environment of continuous improvement.

    A specific activity where I can apply what I have learned is to create a lesson plan using tools like Copilot or Chat GPT. I can also integrate activities using the Elsa Speak app for students to practice their pronunciation before an oral assessment. For example, I would ask them to practice certain questions with this app to gain confidence.

    Another activity is to use the Brisk tool to assign writing activities and provide immediate feedback. For example, I can ask my students to write a journal of at least 200 words about their vacation and use Brisk to give detailed feedback.

    In conclusion, the implementation of these technological tools will allow me to design more effective and attractive classes, improving interaction, personalization and student motivation, and making the most of the educational resources available in the digital age.

Incorporation of content created with AI

    This module allowed me to create a variety of content with AI, such as presentations, songs, avatars, videos, lesson plans, and comics. Using Suno, I created a song about prepositions to facilitate my students' learning. With Diffit, I prepared a presentation on Nayib Bukele's security policies, capturing students' attention with authentic and relevant material. Also with the help of Heygen I created a video about the rains and I really liked the result.

    Additionally, I created a comic with AI-comic-factory to demonstrate how my students could present themselves. I assigned assignments using apps like ChatterPix Kids to have students present themselves creatively. Tools like Elsa Speak and Emma helped improve speaking, while Free Text-to-Speech and Murf AI improved listening.

    These apps allow students to practice specific skills and receive immediate feedback, improving their learning and motivation. With this knowledge, I will be able to create more dynamic and effective lessons, adapted to the individual needs of the students, promoting a more motivating and efficient educational environment.

    Also, I had the opportunity to participate in the creation of an educational bot. This was one of the best experiences I had throughout the course. Together with my colleagues, using poe.com, we created a specific bot for the subject of English A1 for high school. We provided the proper instructions and gathered all the necessary information to feed and test the bot. Honestly, I liked the results obtained. It was a wonderful idea since with the creation of this bot we will be able to help many students regarding topics that they sometimes do not understand quickly.

    In addition to having acquired all the knowledge mentioned above, I also had the opportunity to obtain several certifications. These certifications have given me a deep understanding of crucial topics in teaching, and I am excited to apply this advanced knowledge in my teaching practice.

    I chose to include this content because it demonstrates the diversity of digital resources and tools that I have learned to use to improve teaching and learning in the classroom. Through this module, I have acquired skills in creating interactive and personalized educational materials, which is essential to capture students' attention and facilitate their understanding of the topics.

    This content demonstrates my ability to integrate technology into education effectively, using AI tools to create teaching materials and foster creativity. It also highlights my focus on personalizing learning, adapting content to students' needs and providing inclusive education. Additionally, creating an educational bot shows my ability to collaborate and apply advanced technological knowledge in teaching.

LINKS TO MY CREATIONS

Videos

Songs

Lesson plans

Presentations

Certifications

More materials

Bot