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Loyola Students Present on Latin Pedagogy at State Conference
Two Loyola Academy seniors, Ben Olsen and Gavin Pardilla, recently presented their paper, "A High-Schooler Perspective on the Trajectory of Latin Pedagogy," at the Illinois Classical Conference on October 20.
In a program featuring scholars from Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago, the University of Illinois, Denison, and other institutions, Olsen and Pardilla stood out not only for their age but also for their innovative topic—how AI and other technologies can advance the teaching of Latin.
Both students interned at Dickinson College this past summer, contributing to an online commentary on the Letters of Pliny the Younger, a key component of the AP Latin curriculum. Drawing on that experience, they discussed how technology can enhance "living Latin" practice, deepen interpretation of classical texts, and foster emotional engagement with ancient works.
"AI can be a powerful ally in real learning," Olsen said. "It's time to move beyond the notion of AI as a shortcut and embrace it as a tool to enrich Latin pedagogy."
Their presentation was met with enthusiasm from college faculty. "Ben and Gavin have already reached a truly impressive point in their studies," noted Robert Simmons, chair of Classical Languages at Monmouth College.
Olsen plans to major in Classics, while Pardilla intends to combine studies in Classics and the sciences as he prepares for medical school.
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Both students interned at Dickinson College this past summer, contributing to an online commentary on the Letters of Pliny the Younger, a key component of the AP Latin curriculum. Drawing on that experience, they discussed how technology can enhance "living Latin" practice, deepen interpretation of classical texts, and foster emotional engagement with ancient works.
"AI can be a powerful ally in real learning," Olsen said. "It's time to move beyond the notion of AI as a shortcut and embrace it as a tool to enrich Latin pedagogy."
Their presentation was met with enthusiasm from college faculty. "Ben and Gavin have already reached a truly impressive point in their studies," noted Robert Simmons, chair of Classical Languages at Monmouth College.
Olsen plans to major in Classics, while Pardilla intends to combine studies in Classics and the sciences as he prepares for medical school.
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