CML HOSTS WEBINAR ON LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING PRACTICE (WeLLT) 2024: HARNESSING AI TECHNOLOGY FOR MULTIMODAL LANGUAGE LEARNING: INNOVATIONS AND BEST PRACTICES

PEKAN, 11 October 2024 - Centre for Modern Languages successfully hosted an insightful webinar forum on the theme “Harnessing AI Technology for Multimodal Language Learning: Innovations and Best Practices”. The forum brought together panelists, educators, and participants to explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in language education. The audience were from organizations such as Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education, Taiyuan Foreign Language School, China, UM, USM, UKM, UTM, USM, UniMAP, Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah, Tunku Abdul Rahman University, KPM IM, IPGM, and secondary schools around Malaysia.

The event began with a welcoming speech by Program Director, Dr. Ruhil Amal Azmuddin, followed by a montage presentation showcasing UMPSA's postgraduate programs. Wan Noor Farah introduced the distinguished panelists who were renowned experts in their fields. They consist of Associate Professor Dr. Adelina Asmawi from Universiti Malaya, Associate Professor Dr. Afendi Hamat from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and our very own lecturer in UMPSA, Associate Professors Dr. Zuraina Ali.

The moderator, Noraisah Nurul Fatwa Mohd Razali guided the forum, which was divided into two key sessions: Current Trends and Future Applications. The first session discussed the latest advancements in AI-powered applications, AI-driven speech recognition, and promising AI technologies for language learning. Their discussions highlighted how tools like machine learning and natural language processing are revolutionizing multilingual education and fostering inclusivity.

The second session focused on future implications, exploring topics such as ethical considerations in AI, challenges in adoption, and ways educators can prepare for emerging trends. The panelists shared practical strategies for integrating AI into teaching and professional development, emphasizing the importance of ethical use and innovative approaches to address diverse learning needs. Participants also engaged actively during the Q&A session, where panelists provided further insights into real-world applications of AI in education and offered advice for educators hesitant about adopting these technologies.

The event concluded with a summary of key takeaways and a heartfelt acknowledgment by Noraisah of the panelists’ valuable contributions and the participants’ enthusiastic engagement. This webinar demonstrated UMPSA's commitment to fostering innovation in education and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance teaching and learning experiences.

Participants expressed that the forum was incredibly insightful, describing it as an eye-opener that deepened their understanding of AI's potential in language learning. This webinar serves as a promising foundation for future sessions that will investigate deeper into cutting-edge advancements and practical applications of AI in language learning, ensuring continued growth and innovation in the field.

Written by: Noraisah Nurul Fatwa Mohd Razali & Dr. Ruhil Amal Azmuddin