AI Application in Foreign Language Literature: ChatGPT's Impact and Skill Enhancement

Abstract

This study investigates the prospective of incorporating input hypothesis, output hypothesis, interaction hypothesis and metacognitive theory into the best practices of ChatGPT in foreign literature. The study used an online survey involving 146 Chinese internet users to examine opinions on the use of ChatGPT for foreign literature analysis and tasks. Specific skills enhanced by AI integration, such as critical thinking, nuanced comprehension, and advanced linguistic proficiency in foreign languages are discussed in the research. However, there were concerns about its ethical implications when used for literary purposes because it may lead to biases, wrong information and risks which include plagiarism. During the application of ChatGPT, it was emphasized that comprehensible input is crucial to ensure that AI provided content is both understandable and suitable to learners’ current proficiency level. Moreover, learners are encouraged to actively utilize ChatGPT as feedback as well as correction tool. Furthermore, this research allowed learners to engage in live communication through using ChatGPT as a speaking partner thereby negotiating meaning and getting instant feedback to support interaction hypothesis (IH). Underpinned by metacognitive theory, instructing learners to reflect on their learning process with the help of ChatGPT involves identifying areas of difficulty and seeking specific assistance, for example, learners may ask about linguistic doubts from chat GTP or test their understanding about certain concepts or vocabulary using it. In order to effectively integrate these hypotheses with metacognitive theories, interactive chat GPTs were designed which required learners’ involvement in comprehensible input generation of language, output meaningful interactions and reflection on learning process; reading or listening to foreign language content (input), responding or creating content (output), engaging in conversation (interaction) tasks are assessed for their comprehension and performance levels (metacognition).