Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter KOTESOL
Monthly Professional Development Workshop
Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter KOTESOL invites English language teachers and other interested members of the public to an afternoon of professional learning, discussion, and collaboration.
Saturday, November 14, 2026
2:00–5:00 PM
Gwangju National University of Education (GNUE)
Creativity Convergence Building (창의융합관)
Free admission. Open to the public.
Workshop 1
Turning Things Around: Generative AI in the Writing Classroom
Rebecca Bae
Since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022, teachers and educational institutions have been grappling with generative AI's impact on student writing, particularly essay writing, summarization, and the use of sources. This workshop offers practical approaches to addressing generative AI in the writing classroom and explores how AI can support the writing process while preserving student voice and authorship.
Presenter Bio
Rebecca Bae holds a master's degree in TESOL from Iowa State University and currently teaches at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST). She has teaching experience in the United States and Japan, working with learners of all ages. As a teacher-researcher, she is interested in helping students develop spoken and written fluency, as well as exploring how students take up feedback and how this influences their interlanguage development. Her current major project, however, is trying to win LEGO battles with her young son.
Workshop 2
From Research to Practice: Strengthening EFL Teachers’ Research and Professional Development Engagement
Phillip Gary Schrank
How do EFL teachers engage with educational research and professional development? Drawing on survey findings from 91 teachers, this interactive workshop examines the motivations, institutional factors, and practical barriers that shape professional learning.
Through guided discussions, collaborative activities, and classroom-based scenarios, participants will reflect on their own research and professional development experiences and explore ways to connect research findings with teaching practice. The workshop concludes with participants developing a realistic, individualized professional-learning plan. The session emphasizes practical application, peer collaboration, and greater ownership of continuing professional growth.
Presenter Bio
Phillip Gary Schrank has lived and taught in South Korea since 2009. He is currently a professor in the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy at Chosun University and is pursuing a PhD in English Education.
Join Us for Dinner!
After the workshops, we'll continue the conversation over dinner at LeJamin.
Dinner is optional and at your own expense. If you'd like to join us, please let us know in advance so we can reserve a table.
We look forward to seeing you!
Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter KOTESOL
