This presentation explores the design, implementation, and pedagogical impact of AI-powered reading tools developed to support personalized learning and reading habit formation among first-year university students in English-medium instruction (EMI) contexts. Initially piloted in Political Science and later adapted for Nursing education, the tools provide discipline-specific vocabulary support, comprehension activities, and feedback through structured learner-AI interactions. A central feature of the project is the integration of a habit tracker, which encourages students to build consistent, self-directed reading practices and reflect on their engagement over time. Students access the tool through interactive prompts such as “Teach me” or “Help me practice,” receiving immediate, tailored feedback that aligns with their language level and content area. As the program transitions into Google Classroom using GEMs (customized Geminis), it offers a scalable, flexible framework that can be adapted across courses and disciplines. Preliminary findings indicate that students demonstrate increased motivation, improved vocabulary retention, and enhanced metacognitive awareness. The AI-supported environment lowers affective barriers, encourages academic risk-taking, and promotes autonomy by allowing students to engage at their own pace and ability level. This study contributes to current research in personalized learning, AI in education, and learner diversity, while offering practical insights into curriculum design, digital integration, and educational equity. It highlights how AI tools—when thoughtfully designed—can foster both cognitive development and positive learning habits in higher education settings.

Authors:
Alina Chirciu, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Alina Rebecca Chirciu is an Assistant English Language Lecturer at Sultan Qaboos University, specializing in AI in ESL pedagogy. She serves on the Central Curriculum Committee and AI team, researching AI-enabled vocabulary learning.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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