The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) will introduce a compulsory artificial intelligence (AI)-related course for all new students starting next academic year, aiming to help them enhance their language skills through AI tools, said Vice President Cao Jiannong.
In a media interview, Cao said that AI is transforming higher education and that traditional teaching models can no longer meet students’ evolving learning needs.
He explained that the rise of AI has made language learning more accessible, prompting the university to reform its language curriculum by introducing the mandatory course titled “AI as a Tool for Language Learning.”
Developed jointly by AI experts and language specialists from the university’s language center, the course will teach students how to effectively use AI tools to improve their reading, writing and interview skills, Cao said.
He added that PolyU will also launch a five-level “AI-powered” examination, which will assess students’ ability to use AI in their studies. Students must achieve at least Level 3 to fulfil graduation requirements.
Students will be allowed unlimited attempts to take the exam during their studies, with their transcripts reflecting the highest level attained — a measure designed to encourage continual improvement, Cao noted.
Meanwhile, the university is developing a learning platform that integrates various AI tools and plans to introduce AI-based debate programmes and job training courses within this semester.
Currently, all PolyU undergraduates are required to complete three language courses at the Chinese and English Language Centres under the university’s Language and Communication Requirements (LCR) framework to graduate.
