Agentic AI and English Language Learning and Teaching

Agentic AI and English Language Learning and Teaching

By Janpha Thadphoothon

As an English language teacher and a concerned global citizen, I've been fascinated by the rapid advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). While AI has the potential to revolutionize various industries and improve our lives, it's crucial to acknowledge the emergence of a new, more powerful form of AI: Agentic AI.

Similarly, Elon Musk has expressed concerns about the potential risks of AI, estimating a 10-20% chance of it "going bad." Despite these concerns, he has invested billions of dollars in his own AI startup, xAI. This apparent contradiction highlights the tension between the potential benefits and risks of AI.

What is Agentic AI?

Agentic AI refers to a type of AI designed to create autonomous agents capable of independent action and goal achievement. These AI agents can analyze vast amounts of data, make complex decisions, and execute tasks without direct human intervention. In simpler terms, they can think, learn, and act on their own.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said that AI agents will soon become as integral to the workforce as human employees as the tech boss suggested that the process of integrating AI into businesses will soon feel as routine as bringing on new members in the team. Similarly, Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, outlined his vision for the future of AI during the company's AI Tour in London. He introduced the concept of Autonomous Agents, which are AI-powered tools designed to assist individuals and organizations in various ways.

These agents can function as personal assistants, helping with tasks like scheduling and email management. They can also collaborate within teams, aiding in project planning and decision-making. Additionally, they can bridge organizational boundaries, facilitating communication and information sharing between different departments. 

Nadella's vision implies a future where AI seamlessly integrates into our daily lives and work, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

The Double-Edged Sword

While the potential benefits of Agentic AI are immense, it's essential to consider the ethical implications. On one hand, Agentic AI can:

• Automate tasks: This can free up human time and resources for more creative and strategic work.
• Solve complex problems: Agentic AI can analyze complex data sets and identify patterns that humans might miss.
• Improve decision-making: By providing data-driven insights, Agentic AI can help us make better decisions.

However, on the other hand, there are concerns about:

• Job displacement: As AI becomes more advanced, it could lead to job losses in various industries.
• Ethical considerations: The development and deployment of Agentic AI raise questions about accountability, bias, and the potential for misuse.
• Unintended consequences: It's important to consider the potential unintended consequences of creating highly autonomous AI systems.

A Call for Responsible Development

As we move forward into the age of Agentic AI, it's crucial to develop and deploy AI responsibly. We need to establish ethical guidelines, ensure transparency, and prioritize human well-being. By working together, we can harness the power of AI for good and mitigate potential risks. 

Several scholars have warned about the dangers of AI. Notably, Geoffrey Hinton, a renowned AI pioneer, has expressed concerns. He suggests that AI systems may possess greater intelligence than we currently understand, potentially leading to a scenario where machines could gain control.

AI Agents and English Language Teaching (ELT)

We can imagine these three scenarios where an AI agent could assist a Thai English teacher named Mana:

Scenario 1: Personalized Learning Plans Mana asks his AI agent to create personalized learning plans for his diverse class of students. The AI agent analyzes each student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning style to tailor lessons and exercises. For example, for a visual learner, the AI might suggest more video-based lessons and flashcards, while for an auditory learner, it might recommend listening exercises and pronunciation practice.

Scenario 2: Automated Feedback and Assessment Mana uses the AI agent to automate the grading process for written assignments and quizzes. The AI can quickly assess student work, identify common errors, and provide specific feedback. This frees up Mana's time to focus on more in-depth discussions and personalized guidance.

Scenario 3: Interactive Language Practice Mana integrates the AI agent into his classroom to provide interactive language practice. Students can engage in conversations with the AI, practice pronunciation, and receive real-time feedback. The AI can also simulate different scenarios, such as ordering food at a restaurant or asking for directions, to help students develop practical language skills.

Not only English teachers, but language learners globally would benefit from the utilization and application of AI. Below are three scenarios where a high school student named Ratree could use AI agents to enhance her English language learning:

Scenario 1: Personalized Language Tutor Ratree uses a language learning app powered by AI. The app analyzes her English proficiency level and tailors lessons to her specific needs. It provides personalized exercises, quizzes, and vocabulary drills. The AI agent also offers real-time feedback on her pronunciation and grammar, helping her to improve rapidly.

Scenario 2: Virtual Language Exchange Partner Ratree uses an AI-powered language exchange platform to practice speaking English with a virtual language partner. The AI agent simulates a conversation, asking questions, providing responses, and correcting her mistakes. This helps Ratree to gain confidence in speaking English and improve her fluency.

Scenario 3: Intelligent Writing Assistant Ratree uses an AI writing assistant to help her with her English writing assignments. The AI can check her grammar, suggest vocabulary improvements, and identify potential plagiarism. It can also provide feedback on the structure and coherence of her writing. This helps Ratree to produce high-quality written work in English.

My research explores the evolving role of ELT professionals in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). My paper, "ELT in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Working with Machines" (Thadphoothon, 2022), highlights the growing presence of AI in the field of English language teaching, particularly with applications like speech recognition, grammar correction, chatbots, and translation tools.   

Since 2016, AI has experienced significant growth and permeated various industries, including education. This rapid and disruptive change presents a unique challenge for the field of ELT. To remain relevant and thrive in this new landscape, ELT practitioners may need to acquire additional skills and competencies.   

Therefore, my paper proposes "ELT 3.0," a new vision that emphasizes the integration of AI tools into the existing roles of ELT teachers. This shift requires teachers to adapt and collaborate with these intelligent machines, ultimately pushing the field forward to the next level.   

Not Sci-Fi Fiction Anymore

The advent of Agentic AI presents a fascinating intersection of technological advancement and ethical considerations. As we stand on the brink of this new era, it's imperative to balance innovation with responsibility.

By embracing Agentic AI, we can unlock a world of possibilities. However, it's equally crucial to mitigate potential risks and ensure that this technology is used for the betterment of humanity.

As Henry David Thoreau wisely observed, "If we live in the nineteenth century, let us live in the nineteenth century, not in the sixteenth." Similarly, in the 21st century, we must harness the power of AI while upholding ethical principles and human values.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.