Speakers
Description
As Vietnam transitions from an EFL to an ESL context, fostering learner autonomy has become crucial in higher education. This presentation explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence writing assistants to promote self-directed learning among Vietnamese university students. Based on the sociocultural theory of learning and the concept of learner agency, the study investigates how students interact with technological tools to draft, revise, and self-correct their academic essays. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, collecting data from 120 English-majoring students through surveys and semi-structured interviews over a 15-week semester. The findings indicate that these writing assistants significantly enhance students' engagement and confidence, allowing them to take ownership of their writing process. Furthermore, the immediate feedback provided helps students identify recurring grammatical errors and improve their lexical resource independently. However, the study will also reveal challenges related to over-reliance on technology and academic integrity. Based on these insights, the presentation offers practical pedagogical recommendations for language educators to effectively incorporate these technologies into the academic writing curriculum. By establishing clear guidelines and cultivating critical thinking, teachers can empower students to utilize technology as a supportive peer rather than a substitute for original thought, ultimately enhancing their lifelong learning capabilities.
Biography
Dao Thi May, Hung Thi Thu Hien and Hoang Nguyet Que are the co-authors of the research. We are English teachers at Bac Kan High School for gifted students. With over ten years of experience in English Language Teaching, our primary research interests include Computer Assisted Language Learning, learner autonomy, and second language writing. We aim at integrating modern educational technologies into the traditional classroom. We are deeply committed to empowering students to become independent learners and equipping them with the necessary skills for the 21st-century globalized workforce.
| Affiliate type | Vietnamese public school |
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