Introduction

My AI Journey: From Basic Expectations to Eye-Opening Realities in ELT

When I first considered this specialization course in AI, my initial thoughts and expectations were quite basic. I really only knew about tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, which I had used before. I imagined the course would focus on learning how to use perhaps five similar tools to help with English language teaching.

However, on the very first day, when teacher Isaac showed us the syllabus and we got access to the information for the four modules, I quickly realized there is an endless world of tools we can use with our students. What is more, I discovered that an AI tool is not just something that provides a requested answer. Applications like Duolingo, DeepL, and Canva, which I used almost daily, are also considered part of this new world of artificial intelligence!

We have now completed Module 1: "INTRODUCTION TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND DESIGN THINKING", Module 2: "ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO ENHANCE STUDENTS ENGLISH SKILLS", Module 3: “CREATING EFFECTIVE LESSON PLANS WITH AI AND DESIGN THINKING”, and Module 4: ASSESSMENTS WITH AI

In Module 1, we received an introduction to the world of AI, covering basic concepts and resources, along with an introduction to Design Thinking. We also earned several certifications (AI for Educators) to deepen our understanding of these concepts. 

In Module 2, we were presented with the opportunity to work with Read Along on a project to select appropriate readings for public schools in the country. Also, we began exploring the specific AI tools we can apply to English language Teaching, AI for Receptive Language Skills, AI for Productive Language Skills and at the end, we learned how to create bots and A-powered notebooks as Learning Assistants. 

In Module 3, the national curriculum was shared with us so that we could learn how to create lesson plans with the help of artificial intelligence and design thinking. Thanks to this, we had the opportunity to experience what teachers in El Salvador go through and look for ways to plan classes with the usual topics, but in a much more effective and dynamic way. We also learned about a wonderful tool called "Google AI Studio," where we had the opportunity to create an application to help students in the process of analyzing sentences.

Finally, in Module 4, we learned about tools such as Brisk, Quizizz (now WayGound), and Quizalize, which can help us evaluate students. But first, we were taught about the different types of assessments. This part was very important because during our years studying for our bachelor's degree in English, we were led to believe that "formative assessment" was something that should be evaluated, but the truth is that it is not. Throughout my blog, I will explain this and many other things I learned during this incredible 6-month course. Enjoy reading!



Comments

  1. Christopher SantillanaJune 16, 2025 at 7:25 PM

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  2. Christopher SantillanaJune 16, 2025 at 7:26 PM

    Hi, your reflection about your learning journey is really interesting. I can relate to your initial expectations. I also thought we would only work with tools like ChatGPT. But just like you, I was surprised by the wide range of useful applications i liked how you explained what we covered in Modules 1 and 2. The part about using Read Along and creating bots that are actually part of the AI world. It is clear that youhave learned a lot and you are excited to apply these tools in your teaching practice. Thanks for sharing your experience

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