This innovative webinar series by ARAISA & ISANS is dedicated to guiding and demonstrating the potential of generative AI technology in the settlement and integration sector. You will find out AI can significantly enhance the settlement and integration experience for our clients and colleagues, helping to reduce client waitlists, shorten wait times, and lighten workloads—a win-win for everyone!
From September 2024 to March 2025, join us for the whole series or for a few webinars! You’ll gain practical insights and guidance and explore the latest AI technologies and processes currently employed in the settlement and integration sector. The series covers a variety of topics, including appropriate client use, new tools for language instructors, and ethical guidelines such as Digital Citizenship and technology standards.
This webinar series aims to serve as a platform for regional knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation by bringing together local experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from across the country to address the dynamic and evolving subject of integrating AI in our sector.
Please note that registration is required for each session. If you miss a session, the recordings are available below.
If you have any questions, please contact David Neilsen, Supervisor, Language Services, at dneilsen@isans.ca
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
1. “FASTER”: Federal Guidelines, Considerations and Practical Examples of AI’s Emergence in the Settlement Sector
Click here to download the presentation.
Speakers
Anita Premkumar is an ESL professional with over a decade of experience teaching English as a second language. Currently, she is associated with ISANS as a Team Lead and EAL Instructor. She holds an Ed.S in Education and Technology and is strongly committed to integrating technology into education. Anita is dedicated to exploring innovative AI applications that can create more engaging and effective learning environments. Through her work, Anita aims to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern technological advancements, making education more accessible and impactful for all learners.
David Neilsen is dedicated to bringing AI awareness to the Settlement sector. In addition, he’s held several positions with ISANS including PBLA Lead and Head Instructor. With a Masters in Literacy Education, David’s passion is increasing the sector’s digital awareness via innovative technologies. David currently works at ISANS as a supervisor of LINC and Sector-Specific programming with a special focus on online learning.
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Tools & Rules: AI for Innovative Language Instruction, Guidelines for Instructors, and Ethical Considerations
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Speakers
Kelli Boland is a Team Lead and Instructor at the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia. She holds a Bachelor of Education and a TESOL Diploma and brings over a decade of experience teaching English as an Additional Language (EAL) across diverse settings. Passionate about the intersection of language and technology, Kelli is dedicated to empowering newcomers to Canada through language and exploring innovative teaching strategies along the way. When she’s not working, you might find her in the mountains, on a beach, or planning her next adventure.
Paul O’Flaherty is a Team Lead and Instructor at the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia. He is responsible for onboarding new language instructors, developing ongoing professional development workshops, and providing ongoing support for a team of over 20 instructors. He is also an instructor at the Western Halifax Community Learning Network where his focus is on helping students with their digital literacy skills and GED preparation. He holds a Master of Education and an MBA from Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
AI in Practice – Turning Challenges into Opportunities
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Speakers
Denise Lo is an English for Academic Purposes and Teaching English as a Second Language teaching faculty at Douglas College, bringing over 15 years of global experience to her current role from the University of Alberta, Yonsei University, and the University of Southern California. Her experience extends to curriculum development projects, including Le Mauril project with Canadian Language Benchmarks and the Canadian Broadcasting Company. Additionally, she has shared her expertise in teacher training through the Norquest College TEAL program in Alberta, Canada. Denise’s passion for Educational Technology has earned the University of Alberta Remote Teaching Award.
Nathan Hall is the Educational Technology and Pedagogy Coordinator for Douglas College as well as teaching faculty in the English Language Learning and Acquisition (ELLA) department and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program. He also helped develop and currently leads the Douglas Educational Support Community (DESC) which provides support to all educators at Douglas College in various areas such as educational technology, Universal Design for Learning, and Open Education. Nathan started teaching English in 1997 and has worked in Lithuania, Ukraine, England, Scotland, and Canada in the areas of Business English, English in the Workplaces, LINC, and English for Academic Purposes. Nathan received the Douglas College President’s Distinguished Service Award in 2023 for his work in supporting faculty members as they moved their courses online during the pandemic.
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Share practical AI experiences and next steps in building a community of practice
Speakers
Denise Lo is an English for Academic Purposes and Teaching English as a Second Language teaching faculty at Douglas College, bringing over 15 years of global experience to her current role from the University of Alberta, Yonsei University, and the University of Southern California. Her experience extends to curriculum development projects, including Le Mauril project with Canadian Language Benchmarks and the Canadian Broadcasting Company. Additionally, she has shared her expertise in teacher training through the Norquest College TEAL program in Alberta, Canada. Denise’s passion for Educational Technology has earned the University of Alberta Remote Teaching Award.
Nathan Hall is the Educational Technology and Pedagogy Coordinator for Douglas College as well as teaching faculty in the English Language Learning and Acquisition (ELLA) department and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program. He also helped develop and currently leads the Douglas Educational Support Community (DESC) which provides support to all educators at Douglas College in various areas such as educational technology, Universal Design for Learning, and Open Education. Nathan started teaching English in 1997 and has worked in Lithuania, Ukraine, England, Scotland, and Canada in the areas of Business English, English in the Workplaces, LINC, and English for Academic Purposes. Nathan received the Douglas College President’s Distinguished Service Award in 2023 for his work in supporting faculty members as they moved their courses online during the pandemic.
Upcoming Webinars
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Working Smarter: Effective Material Production & Tailoring EAL Instruction to Individual Needs
3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. AT
Open for all CLBs
In English, with simultaneous interpretation in French
Tailoring instruction to meet the individual needs of EAL learners can be a complex task, particularly in LINC classes where students have diverse backgrounds, language levels, and learning styles. This session introduces participants to Roshi, a cutting-edge AI platform designed to support educators in creating and adapting materials with ease.
This session will explore the use of Roshi, an AI-powered platform, to streamline material creation and adapt EAL instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners in LINC classes. Participants will learn how to efficiently develop and customize instructional materials based on their preferences for lesson creation—whether they want to start with a rough idea and seek suggestions, utilize templates for specific materials, or create lesson structures from scratch.
Speakers
Jonny Kalambay has always been passionate about language education. With a professional background in software engineering, he is now combining his expertise and passion to build technology tools for educators. He is the developer of Roshi.ai, which is used by thousands of teachers to save hours when creating lesson material.
Saba Mogharebi has been working as an EAL instructor at the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) for the past two years, building on her 14 years of diverse teaching experience. She holds a master’s degree in education, as well as a master’s degree in Linguistics, and I am CELTA-certified. Her teaching approach centers around creating meaningful, student-focused learning experiences. She enjoys incorporating technology to enhance both learning and teaching, and she uses tools like Roshi to develop materials that are tailored to meet individual student needs.
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Addressing AI Use in Asynchronous Writing Tasks: Instructor Strategies & Program Adaptations
3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. AT
For online and blended teachers and administrators
In English, with simultaneous interpretation in French
In today’s digital landscape, AI tools have become increasingly prevalent in asynchronous writing tasks, posing unique challenges and opportunities for instructors of newcomer adult clients. This webinar explores how these tools impact traditional learning environments, addressing the problem of balancing technology use with effective language acquisition. We will discuss instructor strategies for integrating AI while maintaining pedagogical integrity and program adaptations that support learners’ unique needs, ensuring equitable access and enhancing learning outcomes.
Speakers
Daniela Jost Guimaraes is an English teacher with over two decades years of experience in EAL. With a Master’s degree in IMTE from Saint Mary’s University and the Cambridge CELTA, she is now in the process of completing her DELTA. At ISANS, Daniela is facilitating the Internationally Educated Accountants (IEA) course. She is passionate about working in an intercultural setting, where she helps her students enhance their English proficiency and develop the intercultural awareness essential for success in Canada. Recently, she has begun integrating AI tools into her classes to boost her clients’ writing skills. Outside of work, Daniela enjoys spending time with her family, reading, crafting, hiking, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Nova Scotia.
Denise Callahan is an English as an Additional Language (EAL) Instructor at the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), where she has been teaching since 2017. With a Bachelor of Commerce and a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics, Denise combines a strong academic background with practical experience in EAL and EAP (English for Academic Purposes) instruction. Passionate about leveraging her expertise to support newcomers to Canada, she focuses on integrating language learning with practical, real-world applications. She has been exploring AI with her learners. Outside of work, Denise enjoys discovering new places with her puppy and creating art through rug hooking.
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Future Trends: AI in Education: Predict How AI Will Shape Language Learning, Classroom Dynamics, and Teacher Roles
3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. AT
For online and blended teachers and administrators
In English, with simultaneous interpretation in French
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is transforming the educational landscape, reshaping how languages are learned, taught, and experienced. This presentation explores GenAI’s potential impacts on language learning, examining how innovative tools can personalize education, facilitate dynamic classroom interactions, and redefine the teacher’s role as a guide and facilitator. Join us as we explore future trends, challenges, and opportunities, and discuss how GenAI can support learners’ language learning, empower educators, and strengthen outcomes in diverse settlement-focused programs.
Speakers
Julian L’Enfant is an Educational Developer at Saint Mary’s University with over 27 years of experience in educational management, teacher education, and training. Currently pursuing a PhD in E-Research and Technology-Enhanced Learning at Lancaster University, Julian focuses on the role of GAI, emerging technologies, and inclusive education in higher education. His forthcoming paper, “AI as a Reflective Coach in Graduate ESL Practicum,” explores innovative applications of AI in teacher development. Julian is committed to advancing the integration of AI into teaching and learning practices to create more inclusive and effective educational environments.
Sandra Borges has 20 years of experience as an English Language Teacher. She holds a master’s degree in Teaching English as an International Language from Saint Mary’s University, postgraduate degrees in Bilingual Education and English Language Teaching, and a BA in Languages. She has also earned DELTA (M2), CELTA, ICELT, and TKT certifications. Sandra is a Team Lead and EAL Instructor at ISANS, teaches in Dalhousie University’s English in Canada Program, and tutors online for the Oxford Teacher Academy offered by Oxford University Press UK.