1 Introduction

Discusses how in the era of artificial intelligence, knowledge is no longer a unique human strength but also a capability of AI. AI may replace foreign language teachers who merely impart knowledge, placing foreign language education in crisis. The author argues that the vitality of foreign language education lies in the professional competence and intellectual capacity of teachers and students, which represent their true strength and are less likely to be replaced by AI.

2 A Pressing Question in Need of Reflection

Explores the significant contributions of foreign language education to China's internationalization and the popularization of foreign languages, while also highlighting current issues, particularly the shortcomings in the professional competence and intellectual capacity of foreign language teachers and students. By comparing historically accomplished scholars who mastered both Chinese and Western learning with modern foreign language educators, the article emphasizes the importance of linguistic-literary cultivation and intellectual capacity for foreign language practitioners. It notes that teachers' linguistic-literary cultivation and intellectual capacity profoundly influence students, yet current deficiencies exist in language proficiency, literary cultivation, and theoretical application. The article underscores the importance of these qualities in foreign language education and proposes the "Five Competencies" for educators: knowledge power, imaginative power, innovative power, creative power, and international communication power. Finally, it calls for foreign language education to be rooted in local contexts, breaking free from theoretical frameworks disconnected from national conditions to reconstruct a new order.

3 Professional Competence and Intellectual Capacity: Case Analysis

Emphasizes the close connection between foreign language education and the professional competence and intellectual capacity of teachers and students. Professional competence includes proficiency in both the native and target languages, as well as literary cultivation, while knowledge power is demonstrated through the flexible application, enrichment, and development of knowledge. Foreign language education serves not only as a platform for showcasing linguistic and literary abilities but also as a stage for imaginative, innovative, and creative powers. Using the example of expressing "snow-capped mountains" in English, the article illustrates how diverse linguistic knowledge and literary skills can generate multiple expressions, as well as how imaginative and innovative powers can create novel descriptions. Creativity enables the construction of varied depictions of snow-capped landscapes. These combined competencies allow foreign language educators to accurately convey intentions in international communication, showcasing rich and diverse expressive power. Knowledge power, imaginative power, innovative power, creative power, and international communication power are fundamental prerequisites for foreign language professionals to thrive in society.

4 Intellectual Capacity in Foreign Language Education Research

Discusses the importance of intellectual capacity in foreign language education research, pointing out the current lack of systematic theories and emphasizing its impact on action. The author considers knowledge power the foundation of such research, involving the flexible application and personalized enrichment of native and target language knowledge. Imaginative power sparks learner enthusiasm in pedagogical discussions, enhancing learning outcomes. Innovative power enables researchers to transcend their limits and refine existing theories or methods. Creative power drives researchers to examine issues from new perspectives and construct new theories. International communication power demands precise understanding of linguistic differences, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability, while also focusing on local foreign language education philosophies and strengthening international academic exchanges. The author also addresses the applicability of foreign language teaching methodologies, stressing the need for research flexibility and adaptability, free from the constraints of Western research paradigms.

5 Conclusion

Highlights the coexistence of achievements and challenges in foreign language education, proposing that its long-term development depends on prioritizing the professional competence and intellectual capacity of teachers and students. Professional competence, encompassing native and target language proficiency and literary cultivation, is the core of the discipline. Intellectual capacity, including knowledge power, imaginative power, innovative power, creative power, and international communication power, forms the foundation of foreign language education practice and research. Progress in foreign language education must start from the fundamentals: strengthening the cultivation of professional competence and the nurturing of intellectual capacity.