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In Part 1, we looked at how to build a sensible measurement philosophy for language training using KPIs and the Global Scale of English (GSE). We’ve established that language programs shouldn’t be treated as a calendar entry, but as a strategic lever, and that independence, granularity and credibility are the secret sauce.

Now it’s time to move from how to why: how these datapoints translate into tangible business outcomes, and how to make sure your investment in English doesn’t just look good on slides but actually delivers value when the CFO walks in.

From measuring to meaning: translating KPIs into ROI

Let’s be blunt: only a reckless stakeholder invests without expecting a return. Weighing costs and benefits, however, can get tricky. Without some operational clarity, ROI quickly becomes either a fairy tale or a labyrinth, both of which are bad news in risk-averse corporate cultures.

From a client’s perspective, it’s vital to include all components in your calculation: direct delivery fees, platform access, materials and, ideally, a provider capable of offering the full package. And please don’t forget the indirect cost of time. Two hours of lessons per week equals more than 100 hours per learner per year. Add the asynchronous learning that every serious learner contributes, and we’re suddenly talking about real numbers.

If you skip that, the ROI will look spectacular on paper until someone performs a reality check and the budget line gets a little uncomfortable. If you’re an L&D manager reading this, add sensible estimates for coordination and reporting. Ideally, your provider helps you keep those to a minimum. At choices®, which provides language services, we see this as part of the service rather than a side quest. Trust me, it saves everyone time and sanity.

Language education has never been more active or challenging. We've experienced significant changes in technology, changing student needs and higher expectations for practical results. Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook is positive: better tools, clearer skill guides and learning that feels more personal and human.

Below are nine trends to keep an eye on in 2026 for your language teaching. 

AI becomes your co-teacher, not your replacement

Generative AI is moving from novelty to dependable support: drafting lesson variants, generating levelled texts, offering initial feedback on writing and speaking, and freeing you to focus on pedagogy and relationships. The emphasis in 2026 is on ethical, transparent use: you set the learning goals and the guardrails; AI accelerates the workflow.

Try: Use AI to produce three versions of a reading at different proficiency bands, then validate levels using a recognized framework.

Data-informed personalization with clear proficiency frameworks

Teachers want data they can trust and act on. Proficiency frameworks like the Global Scale of English (GSE) make progress visible and instructional decisions simpler, connecting learning objectives, materials and assessments across skills and levels. Expect more “micro-mastery” milestones and dashboards that turn evidence into next-step teaching.

Try: Map unit outcomes to specific "can-do" statements, then build short practice cycles around those micro-goals. Use GSE-aligned resources to set targets and monitor growth.

It’s that time of year again. Students are heading off on their winter breaks to spend time with their friends and family. It’s the perfect time to think about what we can do to keep our students motivated to practice their English during the break.

Reading is a great way for students to expand their vocabulary and improve their language skills from the comfort of their sofas. The problem learners often have, however, is finding a book that is both suitable for their level and entertaining enough to hold their attention.

Here are three festive readers that you can recommend to your students to keep them busy this holiday season. We have also included downloadable teaching notes and audio samples so you can introduce them in your classes and get an idea of how these could be used as teaching materials.