Viktor Wang, professor of educational leadership and technology at the CSUSB James R. Watson and Judy Rodriguez Watson College of Education, was invited as a guest speaker for the 2024 International Symposium on Interdisciplinary Linguistic Research (ISILR). The event, organized by Beijing Language and Culture University, took place in Beijing, China, Dec. 20-22.
Wang was listed as the first guest speaker on the symposium’s official website, joining a panel of speakers affiliated with institutions from Malaysia, Hong Kong, the University of Oviedo, UC Santa Barbara, King Abdulaziz University, and the University of La Rioja. The symposium attracted an audience of faculty, researchers and students from Beijing Language and Culture University and other universities across China.
During his 30-minute presentation, “Language Education and AI,” Wang explored innovative strategies to support pedagogy and andragogy in the age of artificial intelligence. His discussion was informed by cutting-edge research, including insights from Ethan and Lilach Mollick (2023), who outlined seven approaches for incorporating AI into educational practices: AI as mentor, AI as coach, AI as teammate, AI as student, AI as simulator and AI as tool.
Wang provided actionable strategies for educators to leverage these roles of AI to enhance both teaching and learning experiences. He emphasized the distinct needs of pedagogical (child-centered) and andragogical (adult-centered) learners, showcasing how AI can be tailored to meet these unique educational demands.
Wang’s presentation will be included in a journal article to be published in a forthcoming edition of the Forum for Linguistic Studies, a peer-reviewed journal by Beijing Language and Culture University. The publication will expand on the themes he discussed during the symposium, ensuring a broader academic audience benefits from his insights.