Editor’s note: In this piece, we share details about an international symposium TIRF is co-hosting with United International College, its partner in Zhuhai, China.

We are proud to spotlight the upcoming TIRF-UIC International Symposium on AI-Empowered English Language Teaching and Learning, taking place on May 17, 2025, in Zhuhai, Guangdong, China. This symposium presents an important opportunity for educators, researchers, and practitioners to engage with the cutting-edge integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in English language education.

As AI technologies continue to reshape educational practices around the world, this event aims to explore how these tools can enhance the effectiveness, accessibility, and adaptability of English language teaching and learning. Through a series of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, the event will offer in-depth insights into emerging AI-powered methodologies, best practices, and forward-thinking research.

Featured Speakers and Topics:

  • Dr. LENG Jing (East China Normal University)
    Presentation Title: “From Promise to Practice: Empowering Argumentative Writing with Generative AI”
    Dr. Leng will discuss how generative AI, such as ChatGPT, can be used to enhance students’ argumentative writing skills while also emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and pedagogical frameworks.
  • Professor LI Wenzhong (Zhejiang Gongshang University)
    Presentation Title: “AI Powering Learning-Driven Concordancing for Academic Writing”
    Prof. Li’s session will explore the fusion of AI tools with corpus linguistics to help learners better understand academic language use and improve their writing through data-driven analysis.
  • Professor David NUNAN (TIRF, University of Hong Kong)
    Presentation Title: “The Role of AI in Revolutionizing Language Learning and Teaching”
    Dr. Nunan will examine how generative AI presents not just challenges, but transformative opportunities for teaching and assessment in language education.
  • Professor ZHU Tianqing (City University of Macau)
    Presentation Title: “AI for Language Education: New Opportunities and Challenges”
    Prof. Zhu will offer a perspective from data science, examining how AI can personalize language learning while addressing critical issues like privacy, ethics, and cultural inclusivity.

Early-Bird Registration Deadline

Participants are encouraged to register by April 1st in order to take advantage of discounted rates. More details, including program schedule and registration information, can be found on the symposium website.