How Real-Time AI Interpretation Transformed an International Joint Class at Yonsei University

According to OECD’s Education at a Glance 2025, the growing internationalization of higher education and student mobility highlights the need for learning environments where students from diverse backgrounds can participate together. 

However, enabling effective communication among students who speak different languages remains a key challenge in international joint classes.

To address this challenge, Yonsei University introduced EventCAT, a real-time AI interpretation solution. In an online debate class led by Professor Shim Hee-chan from Yonsei University and Professor Tanaka from Toyo University, Korean and Japanese students were able to communicate more naturally with the support of real-time translated captions.

This case demonstrates how AI interpretation can reduce the operational burden on instructors and create a more engaging learning experience in international joint classes.

Language Barriers in a Multilingual Learning Environment

The class used 360-degree cameras to create an online environment where Korean and Japanese students could see each other and participate in discussions more naturally, while understanding each other’s comments in real time remained a challenge.

At the time, Professor Tanaka provided consecutive interpretation during the debate sessions. Although the class could continue, the pace and interaction required for discussion-based learning were difficult to maintain.

The challenges of this approach were mainly threefold.

1. Increased burden on instructors

The instructor had to manage the class while also interpreting students’ comments, creating an additional operational burden.

2. Interrupted discussion flow

The process of speaking, waiting for interpretation, and responding slowed down conversations and made it difficult to maintain the natural rhythm of real-time discussions.

3. Limited student participation

When students needed to communicate through an instructor-mediated interpretation process, they could feel less comfortable expressing their opinions immediately. The key is creating an environment where students can freely communicate and collaborate despite language differences.

How Real-Time AI Interpretation Changed the Class Experience?

After EventCAT was introduced in the second half of the semester, the way students and instructors communicated changed significantly.

EventCAT enabled participants to access real-time translated captions easily within the Zoom-based online class environment.

The key benefits included:

Easy access reduced operational barriers

Students and instructors could join EventCAT through a URL or QR code without additional software installation.

This simple access process reduced technical barriers and allowed participants to quickly adapt to the new learning environment.

Real-time Korean and Japanese captions supported active discussions

With real-time translated captions, students could follow discussions in their preferred language and better understand each other’s perspectives.

Rather than simply providing translated content, EventCAT helped maintain the flow of conversation and encouraged students to participate more actively.

Translation records supported post-class learning

Class transcripts and translated captions could be downloaded after each session.

Instructors could use these records for class reviews and teaching analysis, while students could utilize them as learning and review materials.

Key Changes Demonstrated Through Yonsei University’s Case

The introduction of real-time AI interpretation transformed the class experience beyond simple translation support. It improved both teaching operations and student engagement.

More natural discussion flow

By reducing the delays caused by consecutive interpretation, students could exchange ideas more smoothly and maintain the pace of discussion.

Increased student participation

With fewer communication barriers, students felt more comfortable sharing opinions and actively joining discussions.

In international joint classes, improving participation directly contributes to a better learning experience.

Instructors could focus on teaching

Without having to interpret every comment, instructors could focus on their core roles, including facilitating discussions, designing lessons, and engaging with students.

Expanded possibilities for international collaboration

International collaborative courses and COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) programs often face challenges due to language differences.

This case shows that real-time AI interpretation can help lower these barriers and enable more flexible international collaboration, discussion-based courses, and project-based learning.

AI Interpretation Opens New Possibilities for International Joint Classes

The Yonsei University case demonstrates that international joint classes no longer need to depend solely on instructors’ language abilities or the availability of professional interpreters.

Professor Shim Hee-chan shared:

“The era when the term ‘studying abroad domestically’ becomes a reality may not be far away.”

His comment highlights that real-time AI interpretation is more than a translation tool. It can help create educational environments where students learn, discuss, and collaborate without language barriers.

Make International Joint Classes More Flexible with EventCAT

EventCAT’s transcriptions can be downloaded after class and used for student reviews, course evaluations, and teaching analysis, helping institutions manage multilingual classes more efficiently.

From international joint courses to discussion-based learning programs, EventCAT helps educational institutions overcome language barriers, reduce operational burdens, and create more inclusive learning environments. 

Educational institutions, NGOs, and nonprofit organizations can receive a 50% discount. 

Get a free demo and customized consultation on how EventCAT can support your global education programs.

Free Demo & Consultation: contact@eventcat.com