The TL/DR...

  • Going beyond the basics of knowing grammar and vocabulary, learning a language emphasizes the ability to communicate in real-world contexts.
  • Language is multimodal and requires learning how to interpret and synthesize meaning from images, sound, music, video, and digital text.
  • Learners need literacy skills that will allow them to create and use generative AI content in a responsible and ethical way that helps them become confident English users who are “future ready” and prepared to enter the workforce.

Learning a new language is so much more than grammar and vocabulary. It is about learning to communicate and use language in real-world contexts. English is an important global language, so learning English can mean learning to communicate with the world!

What follows are several observations highlighting some of the critical ways in which the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has changed our understanding and perception of language—influencing both how we teach and how we learn a new language.

How can we prepare language learners for a world shaped by AI and digital media?

First, we should recognize that language is multimodal, which means literacy in a language is not just learning how to make meaning by putting together letters into words, and then words into sentences, and then sentences into paragraphs. It means learning how to “read” or interpret multimodal texts that include images, sound, music, video, and all kinds of digital media.

What does it mean to be a “future ready” English user in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape?

In a complex, AI-driven, media rich world, being a “future ready” English user means having media literacy skills to both interpret and create communication in digital spaces. It also involves adapting a “voice” and communication style that effectively resonates with the targeted audience across different digital platforms.

What skills are most important for communicating effectively in an AI-driven, media-saturated world?

Critical literacy skills are essential for understanding AI generated media and for learning how to create content using generative AI tools in a way that is responsible, accurate, and ethical. Instead of shying away from AI, educators must learn how to guide students so that they become skilled and confident in the use of AI. This will help students enhance their readiness and preparedness to enter the workforce as “future ready” English users, able to effectively navigate the digital world.

About the author…

The author of this feature article is Joan Shin, associate dean for Faculty Success and professor in the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education and World Language Education Programs within the College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University. This article touches on some of the issues and questions that were addressed by Shin in her presentation made at “National Geographic Learning Day Vietnam 2026,” an event held in Hanoi on May 19, 2026, and Ho Chi Minh City on May 21, 2026. The goal of this event was to learn and explore how purposeful English teaching can help students grow into confident communicators, critical thinkers, and “future ready” learners.