Beyond Autonomous Production: Redefining Language Competence in AI-Mediated Learning

Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence Literacy, AI-Mediated Language Competence, ProcessOriented Assessment, Digital Pedagogy, Human-AI Collaboration

Abstract:
The rapid integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has fundamentally challenged traditional models of language competence, which have long relied on the assumption of autonomous individual production. In AI-mediated learning environments, where language models can generate linguistically accurate and stylistically appropriate texts, independent production can no longer be considered a sufficient indicator of language proficiency. This paper reconsiders the concept of language competence in university-level English and German courses from the perspective of AI-mediated learning. Rather than viewing generative AI primarily as a threat to established practices, the paper approaches it as a development that exposes limitations in existing competence models and requires a shift from product-oriented to process-oriented understandings of language proficiency. Drawing on models of communicative competence and theoretical approaches that emphasise the mediated nature of cognitive processes, the paper argues that competence should no longer be defined solely through autonomous production. In response, the paper proposes a model of AI-mediated language competence (AILC), defined as the ability to critically manage, evaluate, and ethically deploy AI-generated language within specific communicative contexts. The model integrates three interrelated dimensions: linguistic knowledge, critical evaluation of AI-generated content, and strategic, ethical use of AI tools. Furthermore, the paper outlines pedagogical implications for language teaching, especially for assessment and curriculum design in English and German courses, particularly regarding AI literacy and process-oriented evaluation. It concludes that generative AI does not diminish the importance of language education, but necessitates a systematic redefinition of competence in digitally mediated learning environments.

CITATION:

IEEE format

Copy to clipboard

M. Nešić, A. Milić, K. Kaličanin Bojić, N. Vasić, “Beyond Autonomous Production: Redefining Language Competence in AI-Mediated Learning,” in Sinteza 2026 - International Scientific Conference on Information Technology, Computer Science, and Data Science, Belgrade, Singidunum University, Serbia, 2026, pp. 478-484. doi:10.15308/Sinteza-2026-478-484

APA format

Copy to clipboard

Nešić, M., Milić, A., Kaličanin Bojić, K., Vasić, N. (2026). Beyond Autonomous Production: Redefining Language Competence in AI-Mediated Learning. Paper presented at Sinteza 2026 - International Scientific Conference on Information Technology, Computer Science, and Data Science. doi:10.15308/Sinteza-2026-478-484

BibTeX format
Download

RefWorks Tagged format
Download