The Chinese Language Teachers Association of Southern California (CLTA-SC) hosted its 2025 Fall Technology Conference with the theme “Teaching the Human: Reimagining Language Education in the Age of AI.” Co-organized by the USC US-China Institute and USC Chinese Language Program, the event brought together educators to explore how artificial intelligence can be thoughtfully integrated into Chinese language classrooms while preserving the human connection and cultural depth that define world language education.
Teaching the Human: Reimagining Language Education in the Age of AI
In a time when technology can instantly translate text and apps like Duolingo make language learning widely accessible, one question naturally arises: Where is the place for world language teachers?
In her keynote address, “Teaching the Human: Reimagining Language Education in the Age of AI,” Dr. Valerie Sun, principal of Duff Language Magnet Academy in the Garvey School District, invited attendees to reflect on this question. She encouraged teachers to view AI not as a replacement but as a partner in enhancing instructional effectiveness.
She emphasized the importance of maintaining human-centered learning while leveraging AI to improve teacher efficacy, creativity, and engagement. AI can assist in organizing lessons or providing instant feedback, but it cannot replicate the empathy, cultural understanding, and authentic human interactions that world language teachers bring into their classrooms.
Dr. Sun also demonstrated how educators can use AI tools, such as text recognition or idea generation, to design culturally responsive lessons. For instance, she suggested activities that help students think critically about cultural concepts through the framework of products, practices, and perspectives. A discussion around rice dumplings might lead to conversations about family traditions, gender roles, and cultural identity. The story of Qu Yuan could open space for social-emotional learning, helping students reflect on resilience and coping with disappointment.
Her keynote encouraged teachers to embrace technology as a means of amplifying humanity in education, reminding everyone that while AI may transform the tools of instruction, it cannot replace the teacher’s role in nurturing connection, curiosity, and compassion.
Workshop Highlight: The Fun of Colors and Ink
Among the many engaging sessions at the conference, “The Fun of Colors and Ink,” hosted by Dan Li, stood out as a vibrant blend of culture, creativity, and pedagogy. As the hands-on activity of the day, this workshop equipped elementary teachers with practical tools and confidence to introduce Chinese calligraphy and painting in fun, age-appropriate ways.
The session reframed calligraphy from a rigid, formal discipline into a joyful art form that fosters cultural understanding and self-expression. Participants began with color exploration using watercolors, encouraging free brush movement and creativity without pressure for perfection. They then transitioned to traditional black ink, learning about its cultural significance and experimenting with the “five colors of ink.”
Teachers also explored connections between painting and calligraphy by guiding students to paint fruits and animals inspired by artist Qi Baishi, whose lively, expressive style demonstrates that art can be spontaneous rather than precise. Finally, participants practiced integrating simple Chinese characters such as 果 (fruit), 水 (water), and 小 (small) into their artwork, creating pieces that united creativity, language, and culture.
By the end, teachers left with ready-to-use classroom activities that seamlessly blend art, language, and culture. Dan Li’s session perfectly embodied the spirit of the conference—encouraging educators to experiment, connect, and find joy in teaching.
Her involvement also reflected USC US-China Institute’s broader commitment to community and collaboration. Having previously participated in USCI’s LACMA event, where the organization sponsored her calligraphy materials, Li continues to give back by sharing her expertise with peers across Southern California.
Serving the Community and Looking Ahead
The conference brought together Chinese language educators and students from across Southern California, strengthening a network of teachers dedicated to cultural literacy and innovative instruction. Through events like this, USC US-China Institute continues to serve the local community by providing resources, professional development, and creative inspiration for classrooms.
USC US-China Institute would like to invite more teachers to join future events and initiatives. By investing in educators and fostering collaboration, USCI remains committed to its mission: empowering teachers to nurture both linguistic proficiency and the human connections that make learning truly transformative.