Teachers should let learners examine the output of AI translation

Abstract

An important role of English teachers in the era of AI is to provide opportunities for learners to actively examine and digest English produced by AI. This study aimed to conduct an activity, wherein the instructor lets college students whose English proficiency level is around CEFR A2 prepare speech drafts for small talk presentations in English using DeepL. They were required to ask their instructor questions about the English produced by DeepL to enhance their comprehension, and the instructor answered these questions. Students gave presentations in class without reading from their drafts. The presentations were successful overall, despite the participants’ limited English proficiency. Such successful experiences can provide learners with confidence and motivation. This activity is suitable for novice learners who have difficulty composing English speech drafts. The teachers’ role is crucial in allowing each learner to obtain optimal English for himself/herself from AI, regardless of their proficiency level.