The first day of our weekend (Saturday, 21 February 2026), we are holding a joint event with the TEVAL SIG called Language Assessment in Practice: From Teacher Assessment Literacy to AI-Supported Feedback. Afterwards, we are hosting a dinner (details TBA).

The second day of our weekend (Sunday, 22 February 2026), we are hosting a presentation room at the Kyushu ELT Convention with eight presenters (details below).

10:00 - 10:25

Student-Created Vocabulary Tests: A Game-Based, Motivating Approach 

James Emmet Owens (Kanda University of International Studies)

25-minute classroom practice presentation

This presentation introduces a student-centered method where learners design their own vocabulary tests using digital tools like Kahoot. Building on prior research, the approach aims to enhance motivation, deepen word knowledge (Nation, 2013), and improve retention. Student feedback highlights both enjoyment and perceived learning effectiveness.

James Emmet Owens is an Associate Professor at Kanda University of International Studies, and the Senior Coordinator for Research in the English Language Institute. He holds an MA in Applied Linguistics from the University of Liverpool.

1:00 - 1:45

Learner Beliefs and Better Classroom Practice: Insights from KSU

Samuel Taylor (Kyushu Sangyo University)

45-minute classroom practice presentation

This session shares findings from two large-scale studies of learner beliefs conducted at Kyushu Sangyo University and introduces belief-informed teaching practices for EFL classrooms. Participants will explore how confidence, enjoyment, and structured learning beliefs shape engagement and will gain practical activities to apply immediately and to support future classroom research.

Samuel Taylor is a lecturer at Kyushu Sangyo University researching how English classes can build students’ confidence and enjoyment by examining how learner beliefs, teaching practices, and technology affect engagement.

2:15 - 2:40

AI-Supported Glossaries for Smoother CLIL Vocabulary Learning

James Emmet Owens (Kanda University of International Studies)

25-minute classroom practice presentation

This presentation introduces an AI-assisted system for identifying and pre-teaching key vocabulary in CLIL classes. By using pre-class glossaries and regular recycling, the approach reduces classroom slowdowns, supports smoother lesson flow, and enhances vocabulary retention.

James Emmet Owens is an Associate Professor at Kanda University of International Studies, and the Senior Coordinator for Research in the English Language Institute. He holds an MA in Applied Linguistics from the University of Liverpool.

2:45 - 3:10

An Analysis of a New E-learning Vocabulary Test

Ian Dagnall (Kyushu Sangyo University)

25-minute research presentation

This presentation demonstrates how test analysis supports the improvement of tests and provides feedback on course materials. A statistical analysis of a new end-of-semester homework e-learning test in a speaking course showed significant vocabulary gains with a large effect size. The principles highlighted can be easily applied by classroom teachers.

Ian Dagnall obtained an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University in 2020. His teaching and research interests include learner engagement, materials development, and language testing.

3:30 - 4:15

Exploring Motivation in the Language Classroom

Robinson Fritz (Kyushu University)

45-minute classroom practice presentation

This session introduces a practical approach to exploring the dynamics of students’ motivation in foreign language learning. Participants will learn how the Linguaculture Motivation Profiler (LMP) can reveal insights into learners’ engagement and resistance, and how it can be used to foster learner reflexivity and inform everyday classroom practice.

Robinson Fritz is a university educator researching foreign language motivation. He examines motivational dynamics to better understand language learning and inform more effective pedagogy and syllabi.

4:45 - 5:30

Creating Listening Materials Using AI Tools

William Pellowe (Kindai University Fukuoka Campus)

45-minute classroom practice presentation

This session introduces using AI text-to-speech on model dialogs to create listening activities such as gap fill, word unscramble, and multiple choice, as well as for listening comprehension quizzes online. Even though the primary focus is on text-to-speech audio, this practical demonstration will include using generative AI to animate faces in spoken dialog videos. Time permitting, the presenter will finish by demonstrating the prompts to create appropriately-leveled conversation scripts and related activities and worksheets.

William Pellowe is an Associate Professor at Kindai University's campus in Iizuka City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Bill has long been interested in using technology in language teaching.