From January 28 to 30, 2025, linguistic and methodological experts from JSC IITU conducted a training session titled "AI in TEFL: innovative approaches and prospects."

At the end of January, JSC IITU's methodological and linguistic experts—PhD, Assistant professor of the Department of Languages, Zh. Zh. Manapbayeva, and MA in TESOL, Senior lecturer of the Department of Languages, Z. M. Ainabayeva—conducted a training session on "AI in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL): innovative approaches and prospects."

Modern technologies are fundamentally transforming the way foreign languages are taught. Artificial intelligence (AI) is opening new opportunities for learning English as a foreign language (TEFL), making the learning process more personalized, effective, and engaging. These aspects were the focus of the AI in TEFL training, organized with the support of the U.S. Consulate General.The training, held from January 28 to 30, 2025, covered key aspects of AI integration in English language teaching. The objectives of the training included:

Raising AI awareness among 350 EFL teachers;
Empowering 120 EFL teachers by equipping them with AI tools to enhance teaching methodology and students' soft skills development;
Implementing 2-4 AI platforms in TEFL to boost student motivation;
Applying 1-3 AI functions to improve research skills and assessment methods for students;
Promoting ethical online communication through AI;
Ensuring continuous professional development in EFL through AI-powered platforms.

As part of the training, coordinator Zh. Zh. Manapbayeva and expert Z. M. Ainabayeva presented innovative approaches to the application of AI in TEFL. The following topics were covered:

AI-driven language learning – content adaptation and personalized courses based on AI algorithms;
AI in public speaking and presentation skills – using voice assistants and dialogue simulators;
AI for teaching writing – automated grammar and style checking;
Collaborative learning with AI – implementation of chatbots and virtual assistants;
AI for critical thinking and problem-solving – case-based learning and AI-assisted information analysis;
AI for research – automated information retrieval and fact-checking;
AI for feedback and assessment – intelligent testing systems;
Ethics and AI in communication – maintaining ethical standards in online interactions;
AI for lifelong learning – development of adaptive programs and virtual trainers.

During the training, experts also introduced the Akelius platform to participants, which incorporates artificial intelligence capabilities.

The project coordinator, Zhannura Zharkanbekovna, demonstrated a newly added AI-based chat feature called "Personal assistant." With the help of a "talking dolphin", users can engage in interactive conversations, refining their writing skills and expanding their vocabulary

Participants gained not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experience working with AI-powered platforms. AI integration in TEFL not only enhances teachers' efficiency but also boosts student motivation and engagement.

Initiatives like this training equip educators with powerful tools to adapt the learning process to modern challenges. AI in TEFL is not just a technological advancement, it is an opportunity to redefine language learning, making it more effective and accessible for every student.