Innovation in Language Learning

Generative AI is transforming language education; however, many classroom activities still position AI primarily as a source of answers rather than as a partner in meaningful communication.This workshop introduces Concept Detective, an AI-mediated inquiry activity designed to promote conceptual understanding through purposeful dialogue. Instead of asking an AI assistant to define a concept, learners formulate strategic yes/no questions, interpret the responses, eliminate possibilities, and gradually identify a hidden target concept. Throughout the process, they use the target language to formulate hypotheses, negotiate meaning, and apply subject-specific vocabulary in context. Grounded in sociocultural learning theory and Swain's Output Hypothesis, the activity encourages learners to construct conceptual understanding through interaction while developing communicative competence. Implemented with undergraduate English for Specific Purposes (ESP) students in healthcare programmes, the activity provides a low-stakes environment in which learners can rehearse language, refine questioning strategies, and build confidence before participating in classroom discussions. During the workshop, participants will experience the activity from the learner's perspective, explore the pedagogical principles underpinning its design, and examine practical adaptations for different proficiency levels, subject areas, and language-learning contexts. The session concludes with practical guidance on designing effective AI prompts and facilitating meaningful AI-supported classroom interaction. Participants will leave with a ready-to-use activity that can be immediately integrated into their own teaching to foster engagement, conceptual learning, and authentic communication.