A Longitudinal Study of Generative AI Integration in Language Teacher Professional Development

• In Event: Generative AI in Education: From Hype to Evidence-Based Practice

Abstract

This study examined a year-long professional development (PD) program for 50 language teachers using The Synthesis of Qualitative Data (SQD) model to integrate generative AI (GenAI). The three-phase program (exploration, practice, and institutionalization) revealed that while teachers initially struggled to align AI with teaching goals and cultural relevance, they gradually developed more pedagogically sound approaches. Mixed-methods data showed improvements in lesson quality, cultural responsiveness, and student engagement. Key success factors included hands-on practice, collaborative curriculum design, and institutional support, though challenges like assessment alignment remained. The findings extend the SQD model and offer practical strategies for sustainable AI integration in education.

Authors

• Keyi Zhou, University of Hong Kong

• Hongyun DENG, University of Hong Kong

• Hong Ching Chan, University of Hong Kong

• Chin-Hsi Lin, University of Hong Kong