Innovation in Language Learning
An AI-Driven Flipped Classroom Framework for Online Thai Language Instruction: A Case Study of Chinese Expatriate Students in Thailand
Guoxiu Liu, Srinakharinwirot University (Thailand)
Yingyilong Hu, Department of Lifelong Education, Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University (Thailand)
Abstract
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital communication tools has revolutionized modern language pedagogy, particularly in online and cross-cultural contexts. In Thailand, many Chinese international higher education students face critical communication barriers due to limited Thai language proficiency. Traditional virtual classrooms often struggle with low student engagement and a lack of immediate affective feedback. To address these challenges, this case study introduces a data-driven, closed-loop flipped classroom framework tailored for teaching Thai to non-language major Chinese expatriate students.
A qualitative case study design was employed over a 12-week online Thai course, delivering 2 hours of instruction per week. The technological infrastructure combined synchronous videoconferencing with generative AI assistants. Tencent Meeting served as the live instructional delivery platform. During live sessions, Tencent Yuanbao was utilized as a real-time analytics tool to evaluate student reactions, engagement levels, and linguistic friction. Post-class, synthesized student performance profiles and qualitative feedback loops were uploaded and imported into Ali Qianwen and generative AI PPT tools to execute granular student profiling, pedagogical reflection, and personalized curriculum iterations.
The findings demonstrated that this AI-enhanced flipped classroom approach significantly lowered learners' foreign language anxiety by providing a structured pre-class preparation buffer. More importantly, the integration of Yuanbao and Qianwen allowed the instructor to pivot from generalized instruction to immediate, data-informed intervention, transforming passive virtual attendance into active language acquisition.
This study validates the strategic combination of videoconferencing platforms and local generative AI ecosystems in cross-border language education. It offers a highly replicable, practical blueprint for international curriculum designers aiming to deploy adaptive learning technologies for multilingual student cohorts.
Keywords: Online Language Teaching, Flipped Classroom, Generative AI in Education, Thai Language Acquisition, Case Study
References:
[1] Bergmann, J., & Sams, A. (2012). Flip Your Classroom: Reach Every Student in Every Class Every Day. International Society for Technology in Education.
[2] Zhai, X. (2023). ChatGPT user experience: Implications for education. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 4, 100132.
[3] Stockwell, G. (2012). Computer-Assisted Language Learning: Diversity in Research and Practice. Cambridge University Press
