Organized by NetClass Technology, the “AI-based Instant English Proficiency Assessment Seminar” was successfully held in Shanghai recently. This high-level seminar brought together experts and scholars from prestigious universities such as Shanghai International Studies University, East China Normal University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, as well as authoritative figures in the fields of artificial intelligence, linguistics, and educational assessment, to explore the disruptive applications and innovative prospects of AI technology in English assessment.

The seminar featured in-depth discussions around four key topics and resulted in the following major consensus and forward-looking perspectives:

(1) AI-Driven Paradigm Shift in English Testing: Reconstructing New Standards of Efficiency and Fairness

Dr. Li Zheng and Dr. Li Hui from East China Normal University noted that while traditional standardized exams like IELTS and TOEFL offer reliability and validity, they urgently require breakthroughs in efficiency, flexibility, and adaptability. AI-based instant assessment, with its real-time feedback, personalized output, and high accuracy, is reshaping the fundamental paradigm of language proficiency evaluation.

Professor Chen Jianlin from Shanghai International Studies University further proposed the construction of a “multimodal AI assessment system,” emphasizing that deep integration of AI and traditional methods is key to driving the intelligent and scientific development of evaluation systems. Professor Chen stated: “AI+Assessment will spark a fundamental revolution in the field of foreign language education.”

(2) Disruptive Rapid Assessment Technology: Transitioning from Human to Machine Evaluation

Dean Yang Yanning of East China Normal University pointed out that the future of efficient English testing lies in AI-led assessment model design and content generation. By embedding AI algorithms and developing intelligent question types with adaptive features, assessment speed and precision can be significantly enhanced without compromising validity.

Dean Yang said: “Based on expert-defined parameter systems and combined with AI’s data analysis capabilities, English tests will transition from manual grading to automatic and accurate scoring, reducing costs while improving overall assessment quality.”

(3) Large Language Models: Driving the Intelligent Revolution in English Assessment

All Experts agreed that large language models (LLMs), represented by ChatGPT, have become the core engine of technological disruption in English testing. With their powerful natural language understanding and generation capabilities, LLMs are shifting assessment from delayed correction to instant diagnosis.

Dr. Wang Hua from Shanghai Jiao Tong University noted: “AI+English testing is redefining the boundaries of evaluation—assessment is no longer just about results but also process analysis.” Combined with VR/AR technologies, LLMs can create immersive simulation scenarios to accurately capture learners’ language use in real-world contexts, advancing testing from ‘exam-oriented’ to ‘application-oriented.”

(4) AI-Generated Personalized Assessment Content: The Core Driver of Efficiency Gains

Experts including Dr. Zhao Yan from Shanghai International Studies University and Dr. Wu Xing from Shanghai University emphasized that AI’s application in content generation is quickly replacing the inefficient, repetitive processes of traditional item development. AI-based intelligent question generation can not only tailor questions to candidates’ proficiency levels but also support large-scale dynamic updates and personalization. Representatives from NetClass Technology’s R&D team also actively participated and shared their practical insights.

NetClass Technology: Empowering a New Ecosystem for English Assessment with AI

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Dai Jianbiao, founder of NetClass Technology, emphasized: “AI technology is the core driving force for reshaping the English assessment landscape, and it will lead the evaluation system toward a leap in intelligence, precision, and efficiency.” Dr. Dai stated that NetClass Technology will continue to integrate AI with English education in a rigorous and pragmatic manner, empowering learners to improve their language skills effectively.

Disrupting Exam-Oriented Traditions with Technology, Defining the Future of Testing Through Efficiency

This seminar charted a clear course for the integration of “AI + Foreign Language Testing.” In the future, NetClass Technology will continue to develop adaptive AI assessments, multimodal interactive scoring, and intelligent anti-cheating systems, ushering in a new era of more equitable, intelligent, and efficient English testing.