Ju Seong Lee (李主聖), Ph.D. (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)

I study how language learning develops in everyday life beyond the classroom, particularly through digital environments, and how teachers and human-centred AI can support learners’ agency.

This interest grew from experiences teaching and volunteering in different countries and regions since 2000, including Cambodia, Mongolia, and Thailand. They left me with a question that continues to guide my work: How can we create meaningful opportunities for language learning, particularly where such opportunities are scarce?

During my doctoral research, that question led me to develop the concept of Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE), which describes self-directed English learning through digital environments outside formal instruction.

Since then, my work has followed two connected directions: understanding how IDLE relates to learners’ emotions, willingness to communicate, and language development over time; and exploring how AI can work alongside teachers, peers, and learners rather than replace them.

I hope what we learn together will continue to benefit learners, educators, and communities over time.