STSM grantee Ferit Kilickaya is a teacher educator and researcher. His area of expertise is teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). It is a field of education that focuses on the teaching and learning of the English language to individuals whose native language is not English. TESOL includes a broad range of contexts and learners, including English as a Foreign Language (EFL) settings where English is learned in a non-English-speaking country, and English as a Second Language (ESL) settings where English is learned in an English-speaking environment.
“Exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence(AI) tools in language teaching and learning is a topic of immense importance to me. As the digital landscape evolves, it’s crucial to understand how these technologies can enhance language education,” Kilickaya says.
According to him, this area of research holds the potential to revolutionise the learning process and bridge gaps in language acquisition. The integration of AI technologies into language teaching and learning can offer innovative solutions that cater to individual learners’ needs, enhance engagement, and provide personalised feedback, ultimately contributing to more effective language acquisition. However, it also brings some challenges when it comes to teaching and assessment practices as AI tools can now generate unique content and can answer exam questions correctly, which raises the issue of academic integrity. Kilickaya himself is committed to education and innovation as an educator and researcher. During his short term scientific mission in Adam Mickiewicz University, he collaborated with experts from different countries. Together they explored the integration of AI tools in language teaching.
“Learning at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poland, was incredibly appealing. I believe that this experience enriched my research and contributed to the broader dialogue about the intersection of linguistics and technology.”
Kilickaya explains that his research area resonates deeply with LITHME’s objectives. As a COST Action network comprising linguists and technology developers from various countries, LITHME seeks to anticipate the impact of emerging language technologies. Integrating AI in language education aligns with LITHME’s aim to explore how technology shapes language, education, and societal dynamics. This synergy highlights the significance of his research within the broader context of the network.
When asked about the future of language education and AI, Kilickaya envisions a continued growth and innovation in the integration of AI tools in language teaching and learning. As for his own research, with the advancement of language technologies he will adapt to explore their evolving applications and implications.
“My STSM experience was truly enlightening. Being immersed in a diverse research environment allowed me to engage with scholars with unique perspectives on using Artificial Intelligence in language education. The discussions were invigorating and led to the exchange of innovative ideas that have the potential to reshape how we approach language teaching and learning. The cross-cultural interactions were invaluable, fostering personal and professional growth.”
Kilickaya intends to nurture the connections he has established through STSM, collaborating with experts across borders to stay at the forefront of this dynamic field. By aligning his work with LITHME’s goals, he aims to contribute to informed discussions about the intersection of technology and language education.
I would highly recommend STSM to others. The experience of collaborating with international scholars, especially within the LITHME framework, offers an unparalleled opportunity to expand horizons and contribute to cutting-edge discussions. This experience has given me new perspectives and insights that will undoubtedly enrich my research and career trajectory.”
Ferit Kilickaya is a teacher educator and researcher in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) at Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University in Turkiye.
His main areas of interests and publications include the possible beneficial and harmful effects of using technology in language teaching and learning practices in addition to the issues in language testing and evaluation such as peer feedback, online quizzes, and washback.
He has published several articles in journals such as Computer-Assisted Language Learning, British Journal of Educational Technology, Journal of Teaching English with Technology, and Educational Studies and authored several book chapters in international publishers.
Ferit Kilickaya visited Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poland from 04/07/2023 to 10/07/2023 , his scientific report will be published on the LITHME website. To see all short term scientific mission reports click here. Ferit Kilickaya was interviewed by LITHME assistant Enni Kuusela.