The "Designing Your Future Classroom Conference," hosted by Lokman Hekim University and sponsored by the U.S. Embassy RELO Türkiye, concluded, serving as a platform for global educational technology exchange. The event gained status from the selection of its presenters, all of whom were OPEN (Online Professional English Network) Program Alumni, a network supported by the U.S. Department of State and run in collaboration with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).
Gamze Güven Yalçın, Coordinator of the Learning Advisory Program (LAP) at Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University (AYBU) – a recognized OPEN Alum – participated in the program. Güven Yalçın, along with another OPEN alum collegue Yasemin Tören, delivered a session titled "Voices Beyond Words: Digital Storytelling with AI as My Co-Creative Companion," which referenced her direct participation at the ISTE Conference in San Antonio, Texas, USA (June 27 – July 2, 2025).
The session shared how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can function as a reflective tool and a creative partner, supporting learners in expressing their voices beyond standard formats. The presentation detailed the practical integration of AI use with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and ISTE Standards. The core focus was on ensuring learning processes remain human, purposeful, and curious.
The AYBU LAP Coordinator reported a high level of engagement from participants regarding the reflection on UDL and ISTE Standards. This response indicates strong demand within the education sector for strategies to translate these frameworks into daily practice. The conference demonstrated the adaptability of future language teachers to innovative approaches.
