What language skills matter in the AI era?

Abstract

As generative AI reshapes how students learn, communicate, and produce academic work, higher education institutions across the Asia-Pacific region are re-examining the capabilities students need to thrive. While AI can support tasks such as writing, translation, and content generation, successful participation in university life continues to depend on human communication skills that underpin academic achievement, engagement, and belonging. Drawing on a global survey of 156 higher education stakeholders, this poster explores perceptions of the language skills most important for student success in higher education. It compares Asia-Pacific perspectives with those from other regions to explore whether priorities differ across contexts. The findings reveal a striking degree of consensus, with stakeholders emphasising the importance of synthesising information from multiple sources, understanding lectures, and participating in discussions. Looking ahead, respondents identified AI literacy, critical evaluation of AI-generated content, digital literacy, collaborative communication, and information literacy as increasingly important capabilities. The findings suggest that language readiness should be viewed not only as a gateway to higher education but also as a foundation for academic integration, student wellbeing, and employability. The poster invites discussion on how institutions can support students to develop the human-centred communication skills needed to succeed in an increasingly AI-mediated world.

Learning objectives

• Identify the language and communication skills that higher education stakeholders view as most important for student success in AI-mediated learning environments.
• Explore similarities and differences between Asia-Pacific perspectives and those from other regions regarding future language skills priorities.
• Consider how AI literacy, critical evaluation, information literacy, and collaborative communication may influence student success, wellbeing, and employability.
• Reflect on how institutions can support the development of human-centred communication skills alongside increasing use of AI in teaching and learning.
• Discuss implications for student support, academic integration, and preparedness in an evolving higher education landscape.

Target audience

Higher education professionals involved in student success, international education, language assessment, admissions, academic support, and institutional strategy. Particularly relevant to those interested in language readiness, AI’s impact on learning, academic integration, student wellbeing, and graduate employability.