Digital Literacy Transformation in Strethening Future English Language Instruction (Prof. Dr. Sebastianus Menggo. M.Pd)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents a pivotal advancement in modern technology, playing a significant role in various aspects of our lives, including education. AI, in the context of English Language Teaching (ELT), serves as a transformative tool that enhances and simplifies language acquisition processes. It encompasses a diverse range of technologies, such as ChatGPT, Fireflies.ai, Canva AI, and Duolingo, which contribute to the advancement of digital literacy. Understanding the significance of AI in education is crucial, as it enables educators to adapt their teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of learners in the digital age.

The integration of AI into ELT has revolutionized language instruction by offering personalized and interactive learning experiences. Various AI tools and their advantages in ELT:

·     ChatGPT is an AI language model developed by OpenAI. By using ChatGPT, EFL Teacher/students can interact with AI and get answers to their questions

·      Fireflies.ai is a platform that uses AI technology for transcription and meeting recording

·     Canva AI is a feature in the Canva graphic design platform. This AI can help EFL Teacher/Learners design various materials, such as posters, presentation and graphics

·   SlidesAI.io is an AI platform specifically designed to help EFL Teachers/Learners create effective presentations

·   Grammarly is an AI tool that helps teachers and learners correct grammar, speeling and writing style

·    SpeechText is an AI platform that converts speech into text automatically

·   Bing Chat lets EFL teachers/learners design and train chatboxs for free. Microsoft AI dialogue will provide a reference link

·  Quilbot is an AI-based application that functions to rewrite, edit and change sentences in text narratives

·   Publish or perish (PoP) is a free application that can be used to harvest bibliographic metodata of scientific works in all fields of science.

·  Turnitin/iThenticate is a web-based application which is used to check the level of similarity of text, which is compared with the text in the Turnitin repository itself, as well as text that has been published on the internet in general

Furthermore, the benefits of AI extend beyond the educational sector, influencing fields like:

·   Health: Cancer treatment and gene therapy. Treating cancer by changing the DNA of cancer cells or the immune system, etc

·     Agricultural: plant identification disease, smart irrigation, weather prediction, etc

·  Manufacturing: efficiency and effectiveness that can speed up production, improve quality and optimize production, etc

However, alongside its advantages, AI also presents challenges, including ethical considerations, data privacy concerns, and the digital divide. Educators must navigate these challenges while harnessing the full potential of AI to enhance learning outcomes.

In addition to AI's impact, educators must also consider the broader educational landscape, characterized by the VUCA and BANI eras. The VUCA era encompasses Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity, reflecting the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the modern world. Similarly, the BANI era highlights the brittleness, anxiety, non-linearity, and incomprehensibility of contemporary systems. Understanding these concepts is essential for educators to effectively respond to the challenges posed by the post-truth era, where misinformation proliferates. By embracing online and blended learning models and cultivating digital literacy skills, educators can equip students with the competencies needed to thrive in a digitally-driven world.

In conclusion, the integration of AI into ELT represents a significant opportunity to enhance English language instruction and prepare learners for the challenges of the 21st century. By leveraging AI technologies and addressing the complexities of the VUCA and BANI eras, educators can create engaging and effective learning experiences. However, this transformation requires careful consideration of ethical implications, data privacy concerns, and the digital divide. Through strategic implementation of online and blended learning models, educators can empower students with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and digitalized world.