As part of its continuous commitment to enhancing the quality of teaching and learning, the English Department of Politeknik Negeri Bandung (Polban) conducted a workshop titled “Empowering Educators: Integrating Technology into Vocational Teaching”, held at Aston Pasteur Hotel, Bandung, on Friday (September 19).

The workshop was attended by 19 lecturers from the English Department and featured Tonny Arbianto, Director of the International Test Center (ITC), as the main trainer. The activity aimed to strengthen lecturers’ competence in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital tools into vocational teaching practices.

During the session, participants were introduced to a variety of technology-driven learning approaches through a series of comprehensive and practical modules, including:

• Digital Tools Exploration for Interactive Learning

• AI Fundamentals & Ethics for Academic Writing

• Hands-on AI Applications for Teaching Material Development

• AI Tools for Literature Review & Research

• Designing Assessments in the AI Era

In his presentation, Tonny emphasized that AI should be viewed as a collaborative instrument, not a replacement for educators.

“AI is not a substitute for lecturers, but lecturers who embrace AI will be able to deliver more effective and relevant learning experiences,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of ethical awareness and critical thinking in the use of AI within the academic context, reminding educators to maintain human values in the midst of digital transformation.

According to Dra. Lina Meilinda, M.Hum., the Head of the English Department Polban, this workshop serves as an important step for the department in aligning with the vocational education transformation agenda and preparing students for the Industry 5.0 era.

“This program reflects our effort to equip lecturers with the necessary digital literacy and pedagogical innovation skills to face the future of education,” she added.

By the end of the workshop, participants shared their reflections and ideas on AI-based pedagogical innovations that could be implemented in English language teaching, ranging from automated feedback systems to AI-supported material design and digital assessment models.

Through this initiative, the English Department of Polban continues to reaffirm its commitment to developing adaptive, innovative, and technology-driven teaching practices, ensuring that vocational education remains relevant and impactful in the age of artificial intelligence. (JBI)