Incorporating AI in foreign language education: An investigation into ChatGPT’s effect on foreign language learners

Abstract

ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence application, has emerged as a promising educational tool with a wide range of applications, attracting the attention of researchers and educators. This qualitative case study, chosen for its ability to provide an in-depth exploration of the nuanced effects of AI on the foreign language learning process within its real-world educational context, aimed to utilize ChatGPT in foreign language education, addressing a gap in existing research by offering insights into the potential, benefits, and drawbacks of this innovative approach. The study involved 13 preparatory class students studying at the School of Foreign Languages at a university in Turkey. The students were introduced to ChatGPT through learning experiences over a span of four weeks by the researcher as a language teacher. The qualitative data collected from the interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that ChatGPT positively affects students’ learning experiences, especially in writing, grammar, and vocabulary acquisition, and enhances motivation and engagement through its versatile and accessible nature in various learning activities. These insights contribute to understanding the utility and constraints of employing ChatGPT technology in foreign language instruction and can inform educators and researchers in developing effective teaching strategies and in designing curricula.

ChatGPT in Language Learning: Perspectives from Vietnamese Students in Vietnam and the USA

“…According to research, students find utilizing ChatGPT to be more engaging while learning new words, writing, and language use (Pham & Nguyen, 2024). Its adaptability and accessibility make it more engaging and inspiring for students for a variety of learning activities, according to Karataş et al (2024), Pham and Nguyen (2024), and Marzuki et al (2023). Research indicating AI-powered communication in academic contexts may boost students' excitement and self-confidence during group discussions further supports the notion that ChatGPT could improve these features (Pham & Nguyen, 2024;Qu & Wu, 2024).…”

Impact of teacher training in computational thinking on educational innovation and use of Artificial Intelligence

“…The GPT Chat, for example, positions itself strongly as an epistemic authority, running the risk that its users do not prioritize critical thinking. Therefore, any resource generated by AI must be critically evaluated and then adapted to educational contexts (Karataş, 2024). Other works identify roles of AI in the face of the imminent advance of ChatGPT as an interlocutor, content provider and evaluator.…”

ChatGPT y EFL: Un análisis exhaustivo a través de la literatura

“…This balanced approach is important to fully understand AI's benefits while mitigating its potential drawbacks, emphasizing the need for strategic pedagogical interventions and ongoing research, particularly from the learners' perspective, to refine strategies for its effective integration into educational practices. Karataş, F., Yaşar Abedi, F., Ozek Gunyel, F., Karadeniz, D., & Kuzgun, Y. (2024) The main points highlighted by the research include the positive influence of ChatGPT on students' learning experiences, particularly in enhancing writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills.…”