Teaching AI Literacy and Awareness in LINC/ESL Classrooms

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping how learners access information, communicate, and learn languages. From translation tools and grammar checkers to AI-generated images, videos, and voices, learners are interacting with AI daily—often without the skills needed to understand how these tools work or how to use them safely, critically, and effectively. This session introduces a new AI literacy course  in Avenue.ca for adult ESL and settlement-focused language programs at CLB 1-4.  The activities are  aligned with the Avenue Learner Standards for Technology-Enhanced Language Learning (TELL). The course supports learners in building a foundational understanding of AI and generative AI, recognizing AI-generated and manipulated content, and developing awareness of how AI can both support learning and be used to mislead or cause harm. The course is highly visual and experiential. Learners engage with a wide range of AI-generated images, videos, and audio samples to observe how realistic AI content can appear. Hands-on activities guide learners through identifying common features of AI-generated media, checking sources, and questioning accuracy. Several AI engines and AI-powered language learning tools—such as translation, pronunciation, and writing support apps—are introduced, with step-by-step instructions that help learners use these tools effectively while understanding their limitations. The presentation will showcase how the course integrates interactive tasks, guided discussions, and reflection activities that promote learner agency and critical thinking. Participants will also see how the course explicitly addresses Avenue standards related to digital safety, ethical technology use, and independent learning. Attendees will leave with practical insights into designing AI-aware lessons, concrete examples of learner-friendly activities, and strategies for supporting learners as they navigate AI tools and information in their everyday lives and communities.