A Tale of Two Michaels: Developing Critical Judgment About AI in Lesson Planning
Date: February 7, 2026.
Time: 12:00 p.m. KST, 10:00 a.m. ICT.
https://kangwon-ac-kr.zoom.us/j/86517715928
Meeting ID: 865 1771 5928
What changes when AI enters the lesson-planning process, and how should teachers evaluate the impact?
In this interactive online session, two experienced EFL teachers present parallel plans for the same university-level lesson—one developed with AI support, one without. Participants will examine both planning processes, discuss the pedagogical choices behind them, and develop criteria for evaluating "good" lesson planning in their own contexts.
Rather than debating AI in general or sharing tools, the session focuses on building practical judgment. Through structured small-group analysis (approximately 50% of session time in breakout rooms) and whole-group discussion, you'll explore what becomes visible, what is gained, and what is lost when AI enters the planning process.
You'll consider questions such as:
What aspects of lesson design become more explicit with AI? Without it?
Where does teacher expertise remain essential regardless of tools?
What kinds of decisions are easier or harder to justify when AI contributes to planning?
How do context, culture, and student knowledge shape what counts as "quality"?
The specific planning task will be revealed during the session, allowing for authentic, unrehearsed analysis.
You'll leave with:
A practical set of evaluative questions to apply to AI-assisted work
Experience analyzing real lesson planning through multiple lenses
Sharper awareness of your own pedagogical values and priorities
Who should attend: Teachers at any stage of their AI journey—curious, skeptical, or experienced. No prior AI knowledge required.
Format: Interactive presentation with substantial small-group discussion time. Come ready to think, discuss, and refine your professional judgment.
Michael #1: Michael Griffin
Michael Griffin is an experienced and reflective ELT professional with over 25 years of language teaching and 16 years of teacher training experience. I specialize in EAP, curriculum development, and teacher/teacher-trainer education (both in-person and online).
Over the years, Michael #1 has taught and trained learners and educators across Asia and beyond, including future interpreters, current teachers, NGO professionals, first year university students, and graduate students. His work includes long-term university posts, international consultancy, and short-term projects through the U.S. State Department's OPEN e-Teacher and UGRAD programs, among others.
Michael #2: Michael Free
Michael Free is a university lecturer and instructional designer with over 15 years of experience in English language education and educational technology. He currently teaches at Chuncheon National University of Education and Kangwon National University in South Korea, where his courses focus on general English, speaking and presentation, intercultural communication, and the integration of AI in elementary education.
Michael #2 holds a Master’s degree in TESOL and he is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Educational Technology at Boise State University. His research and teaching emphasize technology-enhanced language learning, AI literacy for future educators, and project-based learning. He regularly incorporates generative AI tools, LMS integration, and reflective practice into his instruction.
