A free webinar presented by Joshua Paiz (Frederick Community College).
Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 1:30 pm – 3:00pm MST (UTC -7).
Click here to see what time it is where you are.
Abstract:
Generative AI presents a critical paradox for language practitioners. Research confirms that while GenAI tools can significantly improve measurable outcomes like student writing scores, this efficacy often comes at a high pedagogical cost. A 2025 study found that students using GenAI, despite higher scores, reported a significant “loss of creativity and agency” and a lower “ideal L2 writing self”, leading to “overreliance”.
This webinar confronts this “Agency Dilemma” directly. We will move beyond the debate of “to use or not to use” and instead explore practical, “human-in-the-loop” pedagogical frameworks designed to manage this tension. Participants will learn concrete strategies to reposition GenAI from a crutch to a “collaborator” or “cognitive stimulator”, ensuring the tool augments—rather than replaces—the development of the learner’s independent critical thinking and personal voice.
Bio:
Dr. Joshua M. Paiz holds a doctorate in applied linguistics/English Language Teaching from Purdue University and industry certifications in Cybersecurity, Cloud Architecture, and Generative AI. His research has focused on inclusive and equitable pedagogical practices and the application of Generative AI tools in language teaching and learning and computer science education. He currently serves as the Assistant Dean for the School of Technology, Trades, Business, and Hospitality at Frederick Community College in Frederick, Maryland.
He is co-author of Artificial Intelligence, Real Teaching – A Guide to AI in ELT, with Rachel Toncelli and Ilka Kostka (University of Michigan press, 2025); and author of Collaborative AI: Artificial Intelligence, Expertise, and Pedagogy in CALL Research and Practice (Equinox, 2026).
This is the first event in a three-part series on Integrating AI in Language Education: Research-Based Practices to Support the Modes of Communication. See the series details here. Participants attending this webinar live can request a certificate of attendance for 1.5 hours of Continuing Education in a request form that is shared at the end of the event. CERCLL will contact them after the webinar about how to request a digital badge.
Participants who require closed captions or an ASL interpreter during CERCLL’s events should make this request at least a week in advance by emailing CERCLL at cercll@email.arizona.edu.