Ethical AI for Language Learning and Assessment

AI has the power to profoundly enhance human lives – but it must be used responsibly. To unlock its full potential, AI technologies must be safe, trustworthy, and genuinely beneficial to the people they are designed to support.

Three people gathered around a laptop, reviewing content together in an office setting.

This paper sets out six key principles for ethical AI in English language learning and assessment. At the heart of our principles is the recommendation of a human-centred approach to AI: acknowledging the vital role of the human in both language attainment and quality assessment.

Our six key principles are:

AI must consistently meet human examiners’ standards
Fairness isn’t optional – it’s foundational
Data privacy and consent are non-negotiable
Transparency and explainability are key
Language learning must remain a human endeavour
Sustainability is an ethical issue

“The English language learning and assessment sector shouldn’t be afraid of AI – but it’s essential to understand more about the risks associated with the technology and understand how we can deliver it ethically”

Dr Carla Pastorino-Campos, Principal Research Manager

“By focusing on keeping a human in the loop and maintaining robust standards, we can carve out a future where teachers and learners feel safe and empowered to use new technology to reach their potential.”

Dr Nick Saville, Director of Thought Leadership at Cambridge University Press & Assessment

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