AI 시대의 내러티브와 공감 교육: <영어 읽기: 스토리와 공감> 교과목을 중심으로

Narratives and Empathy Education in the Age of AI: Focusing on the Course ‘English Reading: Stories and Empathy’

As Artificial intelligence advances, English educators are increasingly confronted with a fundamental question: “If AI can do it for us, why should we study English?” While this shift presents undeniable challenges, it also opens the door to a transformative reimagining of English education. The goal of English education in Korean universities should no longer be limited to only improving skills such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing, but expand into a broader concept of language learning. Narrative-based learning, which fosters students' empathy, could serve such a role. This paper offers a practical example of the use of narratives in English education. Specifically, it explores the methodology of integrating English education with empathy training through the liberal arts course, “English Reading: Stories and Empathy,” offered at Sahmyook University. To implement this methodology effectively, learner-centered teaching methods, such as discussion-based classes, are essential. This approach shifts away from traditional teacher-centered classes focused on enhancing English skills, towards classes aimed at improving humanistic imagination and empathy. This paper emphasizes the necessity for English education to embrace humanistic reflection beyond its narrow confines. It suggests a direction in which English education should progress in the AI era.