Exploring teacher perspectives on Generative AI tools: Enhancing English for Academic Purposes and Content-Based Learning

Conference Presentations

​While the impact of Generative AI tools on teaching and learning has been investigated, teachers’ perspective of their influence on EAP courses and content-based courses requiring the usage of academic English remains under-researched. This study examines the perceptions of teachers towards GenAI tools on EAP and content-based subjects. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten teachers from six H.K. UGC-funded universities. Participants indicated that GenAI tools had affected the curriculum and assessments. However, most indicated a lack of confidence in using these tools effectively, the need to keep up with rapidly evolving tools while expressing the importance of clear institutional guidance on GenAI use. They also stressed the need for students to use GenAI ethically and critically. This study has implications for influencing future practices in HE such as equipping students with Generative AI literacy in the EAP context while raising teachers’ competence in using GenAI tools through more training.