Teacher Candidates Gain Global Perspective on AI and EMI Education in South Korea
The "Korean High School Overseas Practicum Program," led by Dr. Hsin-Heng Chen of the School of Teacher Education, brought together eight teacher candidates for an international exchange. Organized with Gyeongin National University of Education (GINUE), the program, held from June 24 to 28, included an "Education Practicum Orientation," a campus tour, special lectures, school visits, English education practicums, and cultural excursions. These activities provided participants with deep insights into the educational practices of both countries and fostered meaningful cross-border friendships.
During GINUE’s "Education Practicum Orientation," the teacher candidates learned about the university’s strong emphasis on practical teaching experience, with required practicum hours spanning from sophomore to senior years. Wei-Tsai Tai, from the Department of Special Education, noted that early exposure to teaching environments, combined with theoretical learning, significantly enhances the development of teaching skills.
A key event was a special lecture by Mr. Jo, an elementary school teacher involved in developing AI textbooks as part of the South Korean government’s initiative to implement artificial intelligence-powered digital textbooks in third-grade classrooms by 2025, with expansion to all grades by 2028. The initial subjects include mathematics, English, and special education, with Korean, social studies, and home economics to be added later.
Mr. Jo highlighted AI textbooks' capabilities, such as weakness analysis, interactive encouragement, and translation, which support personalized learning at a student’s pace. Teachers can monitor progress in real time, providing timely feedback. However, discussions also addressed challenges, particularly in balancing the roles of AI and teachers. Emotional education and teamwork remain critical, as AI cannot replace the interpersonal relationships essential to holistic education. This balance is a key challenge for educators.
The visit also included a trip to the Incheon English Village, a private institution that collaborates with the Incheon City Education Office. The English Village offers local students immersive English learning experiences through government-subsidized short-term residential camps. Courses are designed around various professional scenarios—such as astronaut, chef, flight attendant, and musician—allowing students to learn English in diverse contexts. Clayton Hemann, who coordinated the exchange, explained that the English Village's teaching philosophy is "Be Happy, Be Interactive, Be Confident," encouraging students to speak English as much as possible, even if imperfectly, in a supportive learning environment.
The teacher candidates observed that, beyond language education, the English Village emphasizes classroom management and students’ s emotional well-being, with a high degree of respect for the students. Yi Chiang from the Graduate Institute of Physical Education and Sport Sciences noted the strong focus on safety and health in the sports programs. For elementary students, establishing order and game rules is a priority, with simple instructions effectively capturing their attention. Jia-Chen Hsieh from the Graduate Institute of Taiwan History plans to apply the use of slogans, observed at the English Village, to quickly regain students’ attention in her future classroom management.
Throughout the nine-day practicum, the teacher candidates gained valuable insights into integrating technology in teaching and reflected on key issues related to bilingual education. Dr. Hsin-Heng Chen expressed hope that more teacher candidates will participate in overseas education practicums to broaden their perspectives through short-term field experiences.