Investigating ESL Learners’ Perception and Problem towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) -Assisted English Language Learning and Teaching

Abstract

The contemporary language learning strategy, Artificial Intelligence (AI) Assisted Language Learning (AI-ALL), incorporates AI-powered applications to support learners' learning activities. Many scholars have been experimenting with AI applications concerning activities relevant to education. The major objectives of this study are 1) The ESL learners' perspectives concerning AI-assisted English language learning and teaching; 2). ESL learners’ problems concerning artificial AI-assisted English language learning and teaching. The present investigation employed a quantitative methodology utilizing survey instruments to accumulate distinct information from 81 engineering stream students including essential primary research objects. A survey with a 5-point Likert Scale was administered to collect the data. According to the study, most of the students had favorable perceptions toward using AI-powered tools, particularly while learning English. The major problem is the lack of quality in AI-powered language-learning apps on smartphones. However, it is envisaged that AI-powered apps in language learning would be deployed as one of the instructional media that might help learners learn English as a Second Language efficiently. The present study recommends further research to investigate thoroughly how experienced language instructors use AI-powered applications in their classrooms to build best practices for utilizing AI in teaching and learning in ESL environments.