The 2025 TESOL-TIRF Research Symposium, held online from June through September, successfully united educators, researchers, and graduate students worldwide under the theme “Where Curiosity Meets Collaboration.” This fully virtual event provided a dynamic platform for participants to delve into classroom-based research and evidence-informed practices across four thematic strands: classroom-based research and learning, teaching methods, professional learning, and emerging technologies.

Speakers, Strands, and Session Titles

Classroom-Based Research and Learning

• Speaker: Özgehan Uştuk (Hong Kong)
• Session Title: Research Engagements in the TESOL Classroom: Putting Curiosity into Action

Teaching Methods

• Speakers: Julie Choi & Rafaela Cleeve Gerkens (Melbourne, Australia)
• Session Title: Arts-Rich Translanguaging Pedagogy

Professional Learning

• Speaker: Katherine Lobo (Massachusetts, USA)
• Session Title: Professional Learning and Professional Development from “Soup to Nuts”

Emerging Technologies

• Speaker: Lana Hiasat (Dubai, UAE)
• Session Title: Innovating Learning Technologies: AI-Driven Tools for the Classroom of Tomorrow

Each session was thoughtfully designed to provide practical insights and foster meaningful discussions among participants.

Event Format and Outcomes

The symposium featured a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities. From June to September, participants engaged with curated video lectures, expert-moderated discussion boards, quizzes, and readings, fostering a rich, global community of practice. In mid-July, four live, interactive workshops offered deeper dives into each strand, encouraging collaborative inquiry and networking among attendees. These sessions were designed to be accessible and engaging, accommodating various time zones and schedules.

As part of the symposium, Alex Li, Senior Professional Development Consultant at Pearson China, delivered an insightful presentation titled “How AI is Shaping the Future of Language Assessment.” Alex began by exploring the need for language assessments, the evolution of language testing, and the five key principles: validity, reliability, authenticity, practicality, and washback. Using Pearson’s PTE (Pearson Test of English) as an example, she demonstrated how these principles are applied in modern, AI-powered assessments. PTE is a globally recognized, computer-based English proficiency test that leverages advanced technology for accurate, fair, and efficient evaluation. Alex concluded with practical implications for teachers: applying core assessment principles, evolving assessment focus with technology, preparing students for digital literacy, and embracing AI integration in teaching and assessment. The session provided valuable guidance for educators navigating the changing landscape of language assessment. 

Participants who completed the symposium received digital badges and certificates of completion, recognizing their engagement and learning. Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of the event in enhancing their understanding of current research trends and providing tools to inform future projects and publications.

The 2025 TESOL-TIRF Research Symposium proved to be a valuable professional development opportunity, fostering meaningful reflection and dialogue among a diverse community of educators and researchers. Stay tuned for further updates from TIRF regarding future events!