Dr. Austin Pack is an Assistant Professor of English Language Teaching and Learning at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. He holds a Ph.D. in English (Applied Linguistics) from the University of Liverpool, where he studied the motivational dynamics of English for Academic Purposes learners in transnational contexts. His research focuses on language learning psychology, generative artificial intelligence, and technology-enhanced language learning. As a language educator, Dr. Pack is interested in understanding how educational technology can assist in the creation and execution of motivating and engaging language learning experiences that are personalized to each learner, according to their own linguistic goals and needs.
Dr. Pack’s work has appeared in leading journals such as TESOL Quarterly, Computers and Education, and Language Learning & Technology. Before joining BYU–Hawaii, he taught at Xi’an Jiaotong–Liverpool University and served as a U.S. Department of State English Language Fellow in China.
EDUCATION
Ph.D., English (Applied Linguistics), July 2021
University of Liverpool
Dissertation: Dynamics of Learners’ Emergent
Motivational Disposition: The Case of EAP Learners at a Transnational English-Medium University
Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Supporting
Learning in Higher Education (with merit), February 2020
Xi'an Jiaotong -Liverpool University
M.A.,TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) June 2013
Brigham Young University
Thesis: Understanding Chinese language and culture:
A guidebook for teachers of English in China
Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages April 2012
Brigham Young University
B.A., Chinese (with a minor in Sociology), April 2011
Brigham Young University
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Brigham Young University–Hawaii
September 2021-present
Assistant Professor
English Language Teaching and Learning
Faculty of Education and Social Work
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) School of Languages
June 2017-October 2020
Suzhou, China
Senior Lecturer
Virtual Reality Language Learning Lab Manager & Founder
IT Officer (Educational technology training for language teachers)
United States of America Department of State English Language Programs
August 2016-June 2017
Shanghai, China
English Language Fellow
Shantou University
August 2014-June 2016
Shantou, China
Lecturer
Oakland University
August 2013 - July 2014
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Special Lecturer
Brigham Young University
August 2008-May 2013
Provo, Utah
English Teacher, Modern Greek Teacher (MTC)
RESEARCH INTERESTS
The psychology of language learning, L2 motivation, Generative Artificial Intelligence, Complex Dynamic Systems Theory, Computer Assisted Language Learning, Virtual Reality learning environments, Language Pedagogy.
PUBLICATIONS
Journal Articles (peer-reviewed)
Pack, A., Hartshorn, K. J., Escalante, J., & Gillette, N. (2025). How well can GenAI (GPT-4) provide written corrective feedback on English-language learners’ writing? International Journal of English for Academic Purposes: Research and Practice, 5(1), 7-26. https://doi.org/10.3828/ijeap.2025.2
Pack, A., Barrett, A., & Escalante, J. (2024). Large language models and automated essay scoring of English language learner writing: Insights into validity and reliability. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2024.100234
Pack, A., & Maloney, J. (2024). Using artificial intelligence in TESOL: Some ethical and pedagogical considerations. TESOL Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.3320
Wen, J., Zhang, L., Pack, A., Guan, Y., & Bin, Z. (2024). The effectiveness of digital game-based vocabulary learning on EFL learners’ receptive and productive vocabulary acquisition. Language Learning & Technology 28(1), 1-21. https://hdl.handle.net/10125/73554
Pack, A. (2023). L2 students’ behavioral intention to use motivation journals: Insights from PLS-SEM analysis. International Journal of English for Academic Purposes, 3(2), 159-170. https://doi.org/10.3828/ijeap.2023.9
Escalante, J., Pack, A., & Barrett, A. (2023). AI-generated feedback on writing: Insights into efficacy and ENL student preference. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-023-00425-2
Pack, A. (2023). A review of the AI feedback generating website “EAP Talk”. CALL-EJ, 24(3), 252-258. https://callej.org/index.php/journal/article/view/55
Pack, A., & Maloney, J. (2023). Using generative artificial intelligence for language education research: Insights from using OpenAI’s ChatGPT. TESOL Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.3253
Pack, A., & Maloney, J. (2023). Potential affordances of generative AI in language education: Demonstrations and an evaluative framework. Teaching English with Technology, 23(2), 4-24. https://doi.org/10.56297/BUKA4060/VRRO1747
Pack, A., & Escalante, E. (2023). Traveling while black. TESOL Journal, 14(3), e719. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesj.719
Wen, J., Pack, A., Guan, Y., Zhang, L., & Zou, B. (2023). The influence of game-based learning media on academic English vocabulary learning in the EFL context. Computer Assisted Language Learning. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2023.2276800
Barret, A., & Pack, A. (2023). Not quite eye to A.I.: Student and teacher perspectives on the appropriate use of generative artificial intelligence in the writing process. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-023-00427-0
Kiss, T., & Pack, A. (2023). A dynamic network analysis of an L2 motivation system: The role of central relational links. Journal for the Psychology of Language Learning, 5(1), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.52598/jpll/5/1/1
Carlson, M., Pack, A., & Escalante, J. (2023). Utilizing OpenAI’s GPT-4 for written feedback. TESOL Journal, e759. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesj.759
Ingley, S. J., & Pack, A. (2023). Leveraging AI tools to develop the writer rather than the writing. Trends in Ecology and Evolution, 38(9), 785-787. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2023.05.007
Barrett, A., Pack, A., Monteiro, D., Wang, L. & Liang, H.-N. (2023). Exploring the influence of audience familiarity on speaker anxiety and performance in virtual reality and real-life presentation contexts. Behavior & Information Technology. https://doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2023.2186145
Montiero, D., Wang, A., Wang, L., Li, H., Barrett, A., Pack, A., & Liang, H-N., (2023). Effect of audience familiarity on anxiety in a virtual reality presentation training tool. Universal Access in the Information Society. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10209-023-00985-0
Pack, A., & Kiss, T. (2022). A visual model of L2 motivation as a complex dynamic system. ELT Journal, ccac037, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1093/elt/ccac037
Kiss, T., & Pack, A. (2022). A network analysis of L2 motivational factors: Structure, connectivity, and central relational links. motivational factors in language learning. TESOL Quarterly, 57(2), 537-565. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.3166
Pack, A., Kiss, T., Barrett, A., & Chen, C. (2021). Towards a non-dichotomous view of motivators and demotivators in language learning. International Journal of Applied Linguistics, 32(1), 94-107. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijal.12397
Pack, A. (2021). Making marking manageable and other tips using the split-screen function. English Teaching Forum. https://americanenglish.state.gov/files/ae/etf_teaching_techniques_online-508.pdf
Pack, A. (2021). An investigation of the motivational profile of EAP learners at a transnational education English Medium Instruction university. Journal for the Psychology of Language Learning, 3(1), 107-114. https://doi.org/10.52598/jpll/3/1/6
Barrett, A., Pack, A., & Quaid, E. (2021). Understanding learners' acceptance of high-immersion virtual reality systems: Insights from confirmatory and exploratory PLS-SEM analyses. Computers and Education, 169, 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2021.104214.
Pack, A., & Barrett, A. (2021). A review of Virtual Reality and English for Academic Purposes: Understanding where to start. International Journal of Computer Assisted Language Learning and Teaching, 11(1), 72-80. https://doi.org/10.4018/IJCALLT.2021010105
Barrett, A., Pack, A, Guo, Y., & Wang, N. (2020). Learner acceptance of multi-user virtual reality learning environments for Chinese language education. Interactive Learning Environments. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2020.1855209
Pack, A. & Newbould, S. (2020). Reddit: Leveraging the front page of the internet as an English learning tool. TESL Reporter, 53(1 & 2), 78-82.
Pack, A., Barrett, A., Hai-Ning, L., & Monteiro, D. (2020). University EAP students’ perceptions of using a prototype virtual reality learning environment to learn writing structure. International Journal of Computer Assisted Language Learning and Teaching, 10(1), 27-46. https://doi.org/10.4018/IJCALLT.2020010103
Newbould, S., & Pack, A. (2018). Report on the 38th Thailand TESOL International Conference. English Teaching in China, 10, 16-17.
Pack, A., & Newbould, S. (2018). Using game playability as a framework for professional development in language teaching. TESL Reporter, 51(1), 1-22.
Pack, A. (2018). Teacher introduction activity for improving rapport and critical thinking. English Teaching Forum, 56(4), 34-36.
Journal Articles (not peer-reviewed)
Pack, A. (2019). Teaching academic essay structure: Easy as 1-2-3. TESL Reporter, 52(1), 99-104.
Journal Papers Under Review and Working Papers
Pack, A., Carter, S., Barrett, A., Escalante, J., & Wolfersberger M. (under review). How well can GPT-4 use an analytical rubric to assess English language learner writing? Submitted to The Internet and Higher Education
Pack, A., Hartshorn, J., Escalante, J., & Hunt, A. (work in progress). How well can GPT-4 identify English language learners writing errors and assign appropriate error markings?
Book Chapters (2)
Barrett, A., & Pack, A. (2022). The state of extended reality technologies in language education and research. In B. Zou, M. Thomas, D. Barr, & W. Jia (Eds.), Emerging concepts in technology-enhanced language teaching and learning (pp. 16-41). IGI Global. https://www.igi-global.com/chapter/the-state-of-extended-reality-technologies-in-language-education-and-research/297717
Pack, A. (2019). Phonetics and phonology. In C. Chen, & G. Morris (Eds.), How language works: A brief introduction to linguistics. London: Macmillan Red Globe Press.
Books (1)
Pack, A. (2013). Understanding Chinese language and culture: A guidebook for teachers of English in China. https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/etd/3607/
Peer-Reviewed Conference Papers (1)
Quaid, E., Pack, A., Barrett, A., & Zhou, Li. (2020). Students’ intention to use high-immersion virtual reality systems for learning paragraph structure: A PLS-SEM exploratory study. In Frederiksen, K.-M., Larsen, S., Bradley, L. & Thouësny, S. (Eds), CALL for widening participation: short papers from EUROCALL 2020 (pp. 291-297). doi: 10.14705/rpnet.2020.48.1203
Doctoral Dissertation (1)
Pack, A. (2021). Dynamics of learners’ emergent motivational disposition: The case of EAP learners at a transnational English-medium university (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Liverpool. https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/view/doctype/thesis/2021.html.
INVITED PRESENTATIONS
Pack, A. (2025). Designing personalized language learning experiences through the use of generative AI tools. University of California, Berkeley, Found in Translation (FIT) Working Group, virtual.
Pack, A. (2025). AI in applied linguistics: Using ChatGPT in the language classroom. American Association for Applied Linguistics (AAAL) Professional Development Workshop Series, virtual.
Pack, A. (2025). GenAI & Language Education. Generative AI and Academic Practice: A Hybrid Workshop. Applied Linguistics and Artificial Intelligence Research Laboratory at the Université Moulay-Ismaïl, virtual.
Pack, A. (2025). Working smarter, not harder: Applying SLA theory to AI use in language education. The Center for Educational Resources in Culture, Language and Literacy (CERCLL) at The University of Arizona, virtual.
CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS
Pack, A. (2025). The art of the prompt: Mastering prompt engineering for ChatGPT and GenAI. EUROCALL 2025, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy.
Pack, A. (2025). What are custom GPTs? Should you use them in ESL/EFL classes? Hawaii TESOL 2025. Brigham Young University-Hawaii, Laie, Hawaii.
Escalante, J., Pack, A., & Gillette, N. (2024). Master the Art of Prompt Engineering ChatGPT and GenAI. JALT International Conference 2024, Shizuoka, Japan.
Pack, A., Escalante, J., & Gillette, N. (2024). AI generated written corrective feedback, is it any good? JALT International Conference 2024, Shizuoka, Japan.
Pack, A., & Escalante, J. (2024). Mastering the basics of prompt engineering (ChatGPT). NAFSA HIPAC District 2024 Spring Conference, Hawai’i Tokai International College, Kapolei, Hawaii.
Pack, A., Escalante, J., Carlson, M., & Barrett, A. (2024). Using generative AI (ChatGPT) to generate written feedback. Thailand TESOL 2024, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Escalante, J., Pack, A., Carlson, M., & Barrett, A. (2024). Insights into the effectiveness of AI-generated writing feedback and English language leaner student preferences. Thailand TESOL 2024, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Pack, A., Escalante J., Carlson, M., & Barrett, A. (2023). How reliably can large language models use a holistic rubric to place English language learners based on writing? Artificial Intelligence Research in Applied Linguistics (AIRiAL) 2023, New York City, New York.
Escalante, J., Pack, A., Carlson, M., & Barrett, A. (2023). Exploring English language learners’ preferences and of AI and human generated written corrective feedback. Artificial Intelligence Research in Applied Linguistics (AIRiAL) 2023, New York City, New York.
Pack, A., Escalante, J., Wan. H.C., & Browne, M. (2023). Student perceptions of using VR film for extracurricular learning opportunities. TESOL 2023 International Convention & English Language Expo. Portland, Oregon.
Maloney, J., & Pack, A. (2023). The use of AI and chatbots in the TESOL field. Hawaii TESOL 2023. Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A., Wan H.C., Yi Hang Ho., & Browne, M. (2023). Understanding student opinions of using VR film for language learning. Hawaii TESOL 2023, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A. (2022). ‘Sorry, it’s not you, it’s me’: Motivational dynamics in an EMI university context. Psychology of Language Learning Conference 2022 (Virtual).
Barrett, A., Pack, A., Guo, Y., & Wang, N. (2022). Investigating the new wave of technology: Language learners’ acceptance of VR technology for learning Chinese characters. Psychology of Language Learning 4 (PLL4). Sydney, Canada & virtual.
Pack, A., & Cheng, S. S. (2022). Vocabulary learning via Reddit and Instagram: Autonomy, agency, and authenticity. Hawaii TESOL 2022 (Virtual).
Pack, A., Quaid, E., & Barrett, A. (2022). Is virtual reality a good fit for TESOL? Insights from ELLs. TESOL 2022 International Convention & English Language Expo (Virtual).
Pack, A., Quaid, E., & Barrett, A. (2021). Evaluating VR system use for continuing support in university academic writing centres: An experiential approach. EAP Education and Practice: Supporting Students’ Academic, Cultural and Emotional Needs conference. Institute of Education, University College, London, UK.
Pack, A., Barrett, A., Quaid, E. & Zhou, L. (2020). Technology acceptance model application for high-immersion virtual reality learning environments. JALT 2020 46th Annual International Conference.
Pack, A., Quaid, E., Barrett, A. & Zhou, L. (2020). Learner acceptance of a virtual reality learning environment for learning paragraph writing structure. EuroCALL 2020 Online Conference.
Pack, A., & Barrett, A. (2020). Using virtual reality to learn Chinese characters. Professional Development Symposium, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A. (2019). Motivational dynamics of Y1 EAP learners at XJTLU (paper presentation). Postgraduate Research Week, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A. (2019). Motivational dynamics of Y1 EAP learners at XJTLU (poster presentation). Postgraduate Research Week, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A. (2019). The case for complexity in researching motivational dynamics in language learning: Understanding demotivation and remotivation of first year EAP learners at a TNE EMI university. SCOLAR ’19 Suzhou Colloquium on Language Arts Research “Criticality, creativity, and complexity”, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A. (2019). Leveraging ICE workshops and group submission boxes for formative and summative assessments. Professional Development Symposium, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A, & Newbould, S. (2019). Utilizing Reddit for English language learners: Autonomy, agency, and authenticity. ICCTAR 2019 (International Conference on Creative Teaching, Assessment and Research in the English Language), Melaka, Malaysia.
Pack, A., & Barret, A. (2019). Exploring virtual reality learning environments for the teaching and learning of English writing structure. XJTLU Annual Learning and Teaching Colloquium, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A., & Barrett, A. (2019). Virtual reality learning environments as pedagogical tools for English for Academic Purposes. BALEAP Conference: Innovation, Exploration and Transformation, Leeds, U.K.
Pack, A., & Barrett, A. (2019). Painting in a virtual world: How virtual reality can supplement the teaching and learning of EAP. BALEAP Conference: Innovation, Exploration and Transformation, Leeds, U.K.
Pack, A., & Barrett, A. (2019). How to use the Virtual Reality Language Learning Lab to teach academic writing structure. JALT: Kyoto x MAVR, Kyoto, Japan.
Pack, A., Liang, H.-N., & Barrett, A. (2018). Investigating the use of virtual reality technologies to support the learning of academic English essay writing. GloCALL 2018 Conference & 15th China CALL Conference, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A., Newbould, S., Beneteau, A., & Harvey, C. (2018). Utilizing Reddit to promote student competency and use of English websites. Professional Development Symposium, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A., & Newbould, S. (2018). Becoming a better teacher: using game playability and self-reflection to know how you can improve as a language teacher. 14th CamTESOL Conference on English Language Teaching, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Pack, A., & Newbould, S. (2018). Game playability and self-reflection: a new interdisciplinary approach to reflective improvement. 38th Thailand TESOL International Conference, Chiangmai, Thailand.
Pack, A., & Newbould, S. (2018). Using playability as a framework for self-reflection. Professional Development Symposium, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A. & Newbould, S. (2017). Using playability as a framework for self-reflection. Professional Development Symposium, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
Pack, A. (2017). Teaching vocabulary: A bore no more! 13th Annual CamTESOL Conference on English Language Teaching, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Pack, A. (2015). Interest sections: What are they? (Representing TESOL’s Intercultural Communication interest section). TESOL 2015 International Convention & English Language Expo, Toronto, Canada.
Pack, A. (2014). Helping native English speaking teachers in China bridge cultural and linguistic canyons. TESOL 2014 International Convention & English Language Expo, Portland, Oregon.
Pack, A. (2013). Helping Western English teacher be familiar with Chinese student culture. Intermountain-TESOL, Provo, Utah.
TEACHER TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS
Pack, A., (2025). Assessment and AI. Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A., Solis, L., Escalante, J., Springer, A., & Maloney, J. (2024). How to use AI in your classroom (a series of 5 workshops). Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A., & Escalante J. (2023). A practical exploration of how generative AI can enhance English language education. HITESOL 2023 Practical Workshop, virtual Pack, A. (2023). Developing and maintaining a research agenda at BYU-Hawaii. Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A. (2023). Using generative AI to help create rubrics. Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A., & Escalante, J. (2023). Unlocking ChatGPT’s potential for providing automatic feedback on student writing. Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A., & Maloney, J. (2023). Using ChatGPT to scaffold learning: Potentials and pitfalls. Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, Laie, Hawaii.
Pack, A. (2017). Intercultural communication: Improving your ability to communicate with Westerners, part 3. Shanghai American Center, United States Shanghai Consulate, Shanghai, China.
Pack, A. (2017). Intercultural communication: Improving your ability to communicate with Westerners, part 2. Shanghai American Center, United States Shanghai Consulate, Shanghai, China.
Pack, A. (2017). Intercultural communication: Improving your ability to communicate with Westerners, part 1. Shanghai American Center, United States Shanghai Consulate, Shanghai, China.
Pack, A. (2016). Communicative activities to teach vocabulary learning skills. Beijing American Center, United States Beijing Embassy, Beijing, China.
Pack, A. (2016). Helping our students meet Western universities’ academic writing standards. Beijing American Center, United States Beijing Embassy, Beijing, China.
Pack, A. (2016). Introduction to academic writing. Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China.
HONORS, AWARDS, AND FELLOWSHIPS
Most Innovative Teaching Practice Award (Best of University)
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China, received 2020
Honorary Educator Award
Suzhou City Government, Suzhou, China, received 2020
Honorary Educator Award
Suzhou City Department of Education, Suzhou, China, received 2020
Best PhD Presentation Award (Best of University)
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China, received 2019
Best PhD Presentation Award (Best of Humanities and Social Sciences)
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China, received 2019
Excellent Poster Award (Humanities and Social Sciences)
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China, received 2019
Fellowship
U.K. Higher Education Academy, received 2020
Fellowship
U.S. Department of State English Language Programs, received 2016
Dean’s List and Tuition Scholarship
Brigham Young University, received 2005
Eagle Scout Award
Boy Scouts of America
Editorial Activities
Review Board Member (2022-Present)
- International Journal of Computer Assisted Language Learning and Teaching
Chief Copy Editor (2017-2018)
- English Teaching in China
Ad Hoc Reviewer:
- Computers and Education
- Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence
- EUROCALL
- Frontiers in Psychology
- International Journal of Computer Assisted Language Learning and Teaching
- International Journal of English for Academic Purposes: Research and Practice
- International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction
- International Journal of TESOL Studies
- Journal of Second Language Writing
- RELC Journal
- Research Methods in Applied Linguistics
- System
- TESOL Quarterly
- TESOL Journal
Courses Taught
Brigham Young University-Hawaii
- LING 210 Introduction to Linguistics
- TESOL 310 TESOL Principles and Methods
- TESOL 405 Technology Assisted Language Instruction
- TESOL 426 Teaching Grammar
- TESOL 490 TESOL Senior Seminar
- EIL 313 Academic English 1: Listening/Speaking
- EIL 317 Academic English 1: Reading/Writing
Xi’an Jiaotong Liverpool University
- English for Academic Purposes Year 1
- Introduction to Second Language Acquisition
- Transition to University and Beyond
Shanghai Normal University
- American Culture and Literature
- Oral English and Intercultural Communication for Graduate Students
- Oral English and Intercultural Communication for Undergraduate Students
- Public Speaking
- Survey of English-Speaking Countries
Shantou University
- Study Abroad Preparation
- English for Academic Purposes/Intercultural Communication
Oakland University
- English for Academic Purposes: Reading
- English for Academic Purposes: Writing
- General English
- Language and Culture
- The Humanity of Language (Introduction to Linguistics)
Brigham Young University English Language Center
- English Listening and Speaking
- Community Outreach English (advanced)
Brigham Young University MTC
- Modern Greek
Linguistic Competencies
- Greek intermediate - (CEFR B2)
- Mandarin Chinese intermediate - (CEFR B2)
- Spanish beginner (CEFR A2)
Professional affiliations
- Member, TESOL International Association
- Member, Hawaii TESOL
CV Last Revised 11/18/2025