How One IMF & PAHO Instructor Uses AI for Language Learning
Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Wadad Finan, an experienced instructor who teaches in our International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) programs. Our conversation focused on how she integrates AI—particularly AI-generated audio—into her teaching to help students strengthen their listening comprehension skills, while remaining deeply committed to authentic language use.
Blending Authentic and AI-Generated Texts
Wadad explained that her teaching relies on a deliberate mix of authentic and AI-generated texts. Whenever possible, she uses authentic materials—articles, reports, and documents drawn from real institutional and professional contexts. However, she also noted that in practice, finding authentic texts that address very specific topics and align perfectly with lesson objectives is not always easy.
In those cases, AI becomes a valuable support. By generating targeted texts on precise themes, Wadad can ensure that the language, content, and level are well suited to her students’ needs. These AI-generated texts then serve as a bridge between textbook materials and authentic resources, allowing her to maintain coherence across a unit while still exposing students to meaningful language.
Why Audio Matters for Advanced Learners
Whether the source text is authentic or AI-generated, Wadad often converts it into audio so students can listen on the go—during commutes, walks, or other moments outside of class. This approach helps busy professionals stay engaged with course content while reinforcing listening skills.
According to Wadad, working with audio in this way helps students:
- Improve overall listening comprehension
- Strengthen pronunciation through repeated exposure
- Focus on meaning rather than isolated vocabulary
- Practice note-taking strategies while listening
AI as a Support Tool—Not a Replacement
A central theme of our discussion was the balance between AI-generated audio and authentic human speech. Wadad emphasized that while AI audio is extremely useful for accessibility and for creating targeted practice, it does not replace exposure to real voices.
Students still need to grapple with natural speech patterns, authentic pacing, and real-world complexity. Learning to follow native speakers—even when the language feels fast or dense—is a key part of advanced listening development to achieve language fluency. Wadad also mentioned practical limitations of some AI tools, such as limited control over audio speed, which further underscores the importance of teaching students how to listen strategically.
Language, Culture, and Meaningful Content
Wadad shared an example of a document she uses with students related to Thanksgiving in the United States, which explores the cultural and economic dimensions of the holiday. Materials like this allow students to practice advanced listening and reading skills while also deepening their cultural understanding—something especially important in professional and institutional contexts.
While high-quality authentic materials can sometimes be difficult to source, Wadad emphasized that combining them with carefully designed AI-generated content creates a richer and more flexible learning experience.
A Thoughtful, Hybrid Approach to AI
What stood out most in our conversation was Wadad’s intentional, pedagogically grounded use of AI. Rather than treating AI as a shortcut, she uses it to solve real instructional challenges—filling gaps when authentic materials are unavailable, supporting listening practice through audio, and helping students engage more consistently with complex content.
As we continue to explore AI tools at ICLS, conversations like this one highlight how effective AI integration starts with experienced teachers who know when to lean on technology—and when to step back and let authentic language do the work.
