How AI and Technology Are Transforming Education: A Focus on ELs and Personalized Learning

          How AI and Technology Are Transforming Education: A Focus on ELs and Personalized Learning Experiences

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies are reshaping the way educators approach teaching and learning. This shift isn’t just about incorporating new tools—it's about a deeper, pedagogical transformation that empowers both teachers and students. At the heart of this change is the rise of Personalized Learning Environments (PLEs), which are designed to create convenient, self-sustaining spaces for learning (Che Ku Mohd et al., 2020).

PLEs emphasize student-centered, self-regulated learning, allowing learners to take charge of their educational journey. With this model, students can personalize their experiences by choosing what they learn, how they learn, and how they demonstrate their understanding (Che Ku Mohd et al., 2020). This level of customization promotes deeper engagement and supports the development of lifelong learning skills.

From blogs and webinars to adaptive learning platforms, authoring tools, tutoring systems, and learning management systems, educators now have access to a wide range of PLE tools. These technologies not only foster innovation in the classroom but also offer unique opportunities to better support English Learners (ELs).

In this post, we'll explore how these digital platforms can be used to enhance learning outcomes for ELs and ensure every student thrives in a personalized, tech-enhanced environment.

A recent study published in Scientific Reports highlights the effectiveness of AI-enabled mobile learning platforms in enhancing English language teaching in universities. The research demonstrates that AI-driven systems can improve students' critical thinking skills and foster deeper engagement with academic subjects. By integrating AI with mobile learning technologies, educators can create more interactive and personalized learning experiences that cater to the diverse needs of ELs (Guo et al., 2025).

The findings of Che Ku Mohd et al. (2020) and Guo et al. (2025) together paint a compelling picture of how personalized learning is evolving in the digital age. Che Ku Mohd et al. (2020) lay the groundwork by emphasizing the importance of Personalized Learning Environments (PLEs), which prioritize self-directed, student-centered learning supported by a variety of digital tools. Meanwhile, Guo et al. (2025) bring this concept into sharper focus by demonstrating how AI-enabled mobile platforms can actively enhance English language instruction, particularly in higher education. For example, AI's ability to process large amounts of data allows PLE tutoring systems to "offer customized support to students and allows teachers to adjust their strategies based on real-time diagnostics" (Guo et al., 2025). AI chatbots are able to provide instant feedback and assistance, which creates a more interactive learning environment (Guo et al., 2025). The interactivity mimics in-person engagement which provides learners with a more engaging experience (Guo et al., 2025). Lastly, "PLEs have the potential to break down geographical and financial barriers" as students are able to receive personalized instruction "anytime-anywhere" (Guo et al., 2025).

Both sources underscore the role of technology in tailoring educational experiences to individual learner needs. Together, they suggest that PLEs, when powered by intelligent, mobile-ready AI systems, can do more than just personalize content—they can boost student engagement, strengthen cognitive skills, and offer more equitable access to high-quality instruction, especially for English Learners (ELs). This connection between educational theory and real-world application underscores the powerful impact AI can have on reshaping modern education.

Benefits and Potential Roadblocks of AI and PLEs

    Guo et al. (2025) present a timely and insightful study that explores how AI-powered mobile learning platforms can revolutionize English language instruction in university settings. Their research demonstrates that integrating AI with mobile learning tools doesn't just improve convenience—it enhances students' critical thinking, engagement, and overall academic performance. The study provides strong empirical support for the idea that technology, when implemented thoughtfully, can create more personalized and effective learning environments, especially for English Learners (ELs) who often benefit from differentiated instruction and language support.

One of the most compelling aspects of Guo et al.’s work is the focus on real-time feedback and adaptive learning. AI systems that can analyze student performance and instantly adjust instructional content are particularly useful for ELs, whose learning needs can vary widely depending on their language proficiency and background knowledge. The mobile format further removes barriers to access by allowing students to engage with content anytime, anywhere—a critical advantage in both traditional and remote learning settings.

Another benefit highlighted in Guo et al.'s work is that data-driven personalization allows instructors to track student progress with precision, making it easier to identify learning gaps and intervene early. This kind of targeted support is invaluable for ELs, who may need specific scaffolding to succeed. In addition, increased learner autonomy is another benefit—students can navigate learning paths at their own pace, helping them build confidence and independence, which are key to long-term language acquisition and academic success.

However, the study also surfaces some potential roadblocks to implementation. First, there are equity concerns. Not all students have equal access to mobile devices or reliable internet, which could widen the achievement gaps that these tools aim to close. Additionally, effective integration of AI requires teacher training and institutional support. Educators must understand how to use these platforms, interpret data, and adapt their teaching accordingly. A shift like that may face resistance or logistical challenges in under-resourced schools.

Despite these hurdles, Guo et al. (2025) offer a hopeful vision of the future of language education—one where AI doesn't replace teachers but empowers them to meet learners where they are. With thoughtful planning and an equity-first mindset, this research shows that AI-enabled PLEs can be a game-changer for ELs and the broader student population alike.

Adapting AI and PLEs for Elementary ELs

While this study was geared toward students at the university level, many of the strategies and benefits outlined in Guo et al.'s study can also be adapted for students at the elementary level. For example, voice recognition and feedback can be used to help elementary ELs practice pronunciation and conversational English skills. Through AI, students would receive immediate feedback that will help them improve upon their speaking and listening skills without the anxiety that may come when speaking in front of peers. Another strategy that was mentioned by Guo et al is the use of customized learning paths. Just like older learners, elementary-level ELs come with varying levels of language proficiency. AI systems can be used to assess their proficiency levels and create lessons and games that adjust accordingly. Lastly, interactivity was mentioned in both articles. Elementary-level students can engage in interactive activities, such as gamified lessons, animated stories, and AI voice-based interactions that help students practice vocabulary and comprehension skills. 

Integrating AI for a More Inclusive Future in Education

As AI and technology continue to reshape the educational landscape, it’s clear that their impact goes far beyond convenience—they’re driving a fundamental shift toward more personalized, student-centered learning. The research from both Che Ku Mohd et al. (2020) and Guo et al. (2025) illustrates how AI-powered platforms and Personalized Learning Environments (PLEs) can empower learners by meeting them where they are, offering tailored experiences that adapt to individual needs and promote deeper engagement. For English Learners—whether at the university or elementary level—this represents a powerful opportunity to close learning gaps, build language skills, and foster greater confidence.

However, successful implementation depends on equitable access, thoughtful integration, and strong support for educators. By investing in infrastructure, training, and age-appropriate tools, schools can harness the full potential of AI to support all learners—especially those who need it most. As we move forward, embracing these innovations with intention and care will be key to creating a more inclusive, effective, and inspiring learning environment for every student.

References

Guo, S., Halim, H. B. A., & Saad, M. R. B. M. (2025, May 7). Leveraging AI-enabled mobile learning platforms to enhance the effectiveness of English teaching in universities. Nature News. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-00801-0

Lazunova, T. (n.d.). Different ages students. primary pupil, Junior High School and college student. growing boys and girls education cartoon vector set. Vecteezy. https://www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/24025274-different-ages-students-primary-pupil-junior-high-school-and-college-student-growing-boys-and-girls-education-cartoon-vector-set

Mohd, C. K. N. C. K., Shahbodin, F., Saad, M. S. M., Nor, A. M., Mohamad, S. N., & Saaya, Z. (2020). Educational technologies in a personalised learning environment (PLE): an overview. World Transactions on Engineering and Technology Education, 18(4), 485-490. Retrieved October 12, 2021 from

Prostock-studio/Shutterstock. (2022, December 13). Impact of personalized learning. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/impact-of-personalized-learning