In this scenario, an educator uses the AI4AL Matching Tool to help learners identify their existing language skills and guide them in setting personalized learning goals. By leveraging the tool’s ability to track skills acquired in different life experiences, learners can better understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This approach will foster self-awareness and encourage learners to engage in lifelong learning to enhance their language proficiency.
As an educator, you can use the AI4AL Matching Tool to support learners in recognising their current language competencies. To do this, log in to the educator portal and access the learner’s application by clicking on “View Mobile App.”
In the learner’s application, navigate to the "Skills" tab and instruct learners to search for and add any language skills they have acquired through formal education, work experience, or personal activities such as traveling or online interactions. The ESCO skills taxonomy integrated into the tool can provide a useful reference for identifying language-related skills.
For example, if a learner has experience communicating in Spanish during travels or has taken an online course, they can add “Spanish proficiency” at an appropriate level. Similarly, learners who have used English for work-related tasks can include specific skills such as “Business English Communication” or “Email Writing in English.”
This seemingly shallow process allows learners to visualise their language skills, helping them set clear and realistic learning goals based on their current proficiency.
Once learners have identified their language skills, you can refine their skill lists by conducting a self-assessment activity using the AI4AL Matching Tool. Invite learners to complete a skills assessment by sending them an invitation through the educator portal. For a step-by-step guide on how to invite learners, refer to the platform’s instructions.
After the learners create an account and start their assessment, they should add only the language skills they genuinely possess. Encourage them to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, ensuring that their skill profile accurately represents their abilities. This data will allow you to tailor language learning activities that address specific needs.
Once the assessment is complete, export the learners' skills data from the educator’s portal.This report will show which language skills are most and least common among the group, helping you design a curriculum that meets their needs.
For example:
If many learners have basic proficiency in a language, you might create an intermediate-level course to help them progress.
If some learners lack confidence in speaking but have strong reading skills, you can focus on conversation-based activities.
If different learners have varying language skills, you can form small groups based on proficiency levels for more effective peer learning.