Presentation Integrating AI into a First-Year Academic English Course: Scaffolding Research, Writing, and Presentation Skills more

This presentation reports on the design and implementation of a first-year Academic English course that systematically integrates four AI tools— such as Research Rabbit, Zotero, ChatGPT, and Talkpal—to support students’ research, academic writing, and presentation skills. The course is organized around three scaffolded assessments on a self-chosen topic: (1) a research paper proposal, (2) a problem–solution essay, and (3) an oral presentation. Each assessment is paired with targeted AI-supported activities. For the proposal, Research Rabbit helps students explore a research field, identify key works, and narrow their focus, while Zotero supports source management, note-taking, and accurate citation. For the problem–solution essay, ChatGPT is used for brainstorming, outlining, language feedback, and revision, with explicit guidance on prompt design, verification of AI output, and academic integrity. For the oral presentation, Talkpal offers individualized practice in pronunciation, fluency, and delivery, complementing in-class training. The presentation will showcase concrete lesson designs, sample activities, and reflective tasks that encourage critical and strategic use of AI rather than passive dependence. It will also address challenges such as uneven digital literacy, over-reliance on AI, and the need to strengthen students’ critical evaluation of AI-generated content, concluding with practical recommendations for integrating multiple AI tools into EAP courses.