On 25^th April 2025, approximately 120 language teachers and scholars from across the world gathered at Lancaster University and online for the second “Teacher Training Day,” a joint initiative organised by Lancaster University Confucius Institute and The Open University’s Online Confucius Institute.

The theme of the day was ‘Sharing Good Practices in Teaching Chinese Language and Culture in the AI Era’. The event explored the integration of artificial intelligence in international Chinese education, offering a vibrant platform for the exchange of ideas, research, and pedagogical strategies.

The day featured keynote presentations by seven distinguished experts who offered insights into how AI is reshaping language education:

Associate Professors Luo Rong and Li Wenjing presented on ‘Innovative Approaches to Teaching Chinese Culture through the Integration of Cultural MOOCs and AI Technologies’. Dr Luo discussed the development and application of Language MOOCs, emphasising how artificial intelligence is being leveraged to enhance teaching practices. She highlighted the use of AI in lesson planning, classroom interaction, and test design, all supported by a structured knowledge network. Dr Li presented a case study on incorporating a cultural MOOC into courses for international students, noting that active engagement helped deepen students’ understanding of Chinese culture. As part of the course, students volunteered at the Zhejiang Provincial Museum, where they introduced exhibits to visitors. They also produced video content explaining the aesthetics of traditional Chinese colours.

Mr Xie Junjie shared his experiences in ‘Practical Exploration of AI Agents in the Field of International Chinese Education’. He introduced the TaoLi AI Agent Platform, showcasing its applications in international Chinese language education through task automation, personalised assessments, and adaptive learning tools.

Ms Chen Ye delivered a compelling talk titled ‘Combination Punch and Differentiation Strategy: How Chinese Language Teachers Address Opportunities and Challenges in the AI Era,’ discussing adaptive teaching strategies tailored for the digital age. She outlined strategies for integrating AI tools like Brisk and MagicSchool into Mandarin education, emphasising their role in automating lesson planning, generating interactive materials, and offering personalised feedback while maintaining teacher oversight.

Dr Zsuzsanna Bárkányi tackled the timely topic of ‘Foreign Language Speaking Anxiety Online,’ offering targeted solutions to help learners overcome confidence barriers in virtual language learning environments. She addressed the pervasive challenge of Foreign Language Speaking Anxiety (FLSA) in online Chinese education, but also outlined actionable strategies to mitigate anxiety, including structured breakout room scaffolding, fostering inclusive communities, and leveraging AI tools like adaptive chatbots and VR for safe language practice.

Professor Xu from the Open University’s Online Confucius Institute highlighted the transformative role of personalised AI bots in international Chinese education, emphasising their ability to deliver tailored language instruction, reduce learner anxiety, and streamline teaching workflows. The presentation outlines practical applications, from HSK exam preparation to interactive lesson planning, and provides guidance for educators to design and deploy customized bots using platforms like Coze, prioritising cultural and linguistic relevance.

Dr Kan Qian addressed assessment integrity in her presentation ‘Navigating AI in Foreign Language Teaching: Balancing Innovation and Integrity in Assessment’. She stressed the importance of integrating GenAI into foreign language teaching, highlighting its potential to transform higher education and enhance language learning while preparing students for future employability. Dr Kan Qian also shared findings from OU’s GenAI assessment project, recommending robust types of assessment against AI-generated content and advocating for clear guidelines to minimize GenAI misuse.

One of the highlights of the event was the Lightning Talks session, where five teachers delivered seven-minute presentations of their teaching experiences and research. These concise, idea-rich talks sparked enthusiastic discussion both on-site and online, with virtual attendees actively engaging through comments and reactions.

The Teacher Training Day has provided a high-level, interdisciplinary platform that advances innovation in international Chinese language education. Participants expressed renewed enthusiasm for their work and a shared commitment to exploring new AI-empowered teaching models in the future.