Enhancing language proficiency and digital literacy through AI

by Esther Derbyshire, Head of Adult Community and ESOL, Leeds City College, AoC Beacon Award Finalist.

From smart assistants to tailored content recommendations, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is woven into the fabric of our daily lives, reshaping how we live, work, and learn. At Leeds City College, we saw an opportunity to channel this transformative power for a greater purpose: to enhance language proficiency and digital literacy, equipping students for a future where technology is vital. Our Adult and Community department did this by integrating AI into its English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme. But how did it all begin, and what is driving its success?

This initiative was born from a pressing need to address the unique challenges faced by ESOL learners—many of whom come from under-resourced areas of Leeds. These students not only navigate the complexities of learning a new language but also confront socio-economic barriers that limit their access to digital tools and educational resources. We recognised that they needed more than conventional support - a learning experience that was personal, flexible, and adaptable to their specific circumstances. AI tools became the cornerstone of this approach, offering compatibility with nearly any learning management platform and requiring only internet-connected devices for both teachers and learners.

Our innovation of this initiative lies in combining advanced AI tools with a learner-focused approach, designed to integrate seamlessly into diverse educational settings while ensuring accessibility and adaptability. By leveraging freely accessible AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, we demonstrate how technology can serve as a catalyst for personalised, effective, and accessible language education.

AI-powered assistants help teachers to design scaffolded lessons tailored to students’ individual needs, leading to improved educational outcomes. By using advanced algorithms, we have been able to tailor content and support to our individual student needs, ensuring that learning remains relevant and engaging. Whether it is through adaptive exercises, real-time feedback, or customised learning paths, Al provides learners with opportunities for personalisation at scale and are always challenged at the right level.

The programme offers anytime AI support and acts as a 24/7 tutor, enabling students to practise, receive feedback, and creatively apply their English language skills whenever needed and in a real-world setting. Additionally, the programme helps develop essential digital literacy skills, teaching learners to interact with AI responsibly and preparing them for a technology-driven future.

Looking ahead, the department is committed to maintaining high standards by leveraging continuous evaluation and quality assurance processes including course reviews, learning walks, and self-assessment reports. Our plans include ongoing staff training, adapting to technological advancements, and expanding its reach through workshops, blogs, and collaborative projects. With AI tools fully embedded into our practices, new teachers now receive AI training during their induction, while college-wide training events and ad hoc sessions ensure staff stay up-to-date with emerging tools and functionalities. Recognising the rapid pace of technological progress, our Deputy Head for Digital and Innovation actively engages in research and disseminates the latest insights to the wider team. AI and digital inclusion remain top priorities for the department, as we continue to champion innovation and support advancements that enhance learning and teaching outcomes.

The success of our recent initiative is reflected in impressive statistics. Achievement rates among adults rose to 91% in 2023/24, marking an increase compared to the previous year, before the initiative was introduced. Attendance rates also saw a notable improvement, climbing from 87% in 2022/23 to 89.1% in 2023/24. Beyond the numbers, the initiative has received positive feedback. Students report feeling more motivated and confident in their learning journeys, while teachers have embraced the opportunity to enhance their resource development skills and deepen their understanding of emerging technologies.

For colleges looking to implement similar initiatives, our advice is simple: start with a clear understanding of the challenges you want to address and ensure inclusivity and accessibility are at the heart of your approach. By fostering collaboration and an open exchange of ideas, we can collectively drive meaningful change across the education sector.

To support others on this journey, we are committed to sharing our strategies and insights. Our team is developing a freely accessible website that will feature best practices and video tutorials to guide educators in exploring and implementing the AI tools we have successfully used. At Leeds City College, we are dedicated to creating a more inclusive and technologically-empowered future for all learners, paving the way for transformative educational experiences.