Kookmin University (KMU) has developed a new artificial intelligence (AI) service called
K*Smart AI Translator. The service was built to help international students better
understand lectures. Based on Google and ChatGPT, it provides real-time translations
in preferred languages.

While some platforms offer similar services, the K*Smart AI Translator has two main
features that set it apart. First, professors can upload their lecture plans and important
key terms used in their lecture in advance, which enhances the quality and accuracy
of translations. The service also generates a summary of the lecture that can be translated
and downloaded in different languages. Students join a lecture by entering their
name and the meeting access code provided by the professor. They then choose their
desired language, selecting from among English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Russian, and
more. During the lecture, students can also use the question button to ask questions.
For international students who previously felt uneasy asking questions during lectures,
this feature allows them to participate more comfortably.

The K*Smart AI Translator can also be used in administrative work,
providing real-time translations to administrative staff when
consulting international students. This reduces any miscommunication or anxiety
related to language barriers. It begins with selecting the preferred language.
The administrator enters the student’s information, which brings up any previous
consultation data. Live translation then begins, presenting the host’s transcript on
the right and the guest’s on the left.

However, students who have used the service have noted some complications.
One issue is the level of audio recognition, as low-volume speech may not be
recognized accurately. It is thus important for professors and students to check
the audio level in advance. Additionally, since students cannot use this platform
independently, greater communication and promotion are needed to encourage a
wider range of students to try it.

Despite these limitations, the K*Smart AI Translator can make lectures and
administrative services more accessible for international students at KMU. As the
service becomes more widely used, it will create an inclusive learning environment in
which students from all backgrounds can better understand lectures.

Park Ye-Ji, Editor-in-Chief

yerixop@kookmin.ac.kr