Speaker
Description
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in language education has gained attraction in recent years, offering innovative ways to enhance student learning outcomes. This study investigated the impact of using ChatGPT, an AI-powered language model, on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students' descriptive writing skills and classroom engagement. This study employed a quasi-experimental design involving 67 non-English major students, who were assigned to an experimental group exposed to a ChatGPT-supported learning approach and a control group receiving a traditional learning approach. The study utilized pre- and post-tests of descriptive writing, along with questionnaires, to facilitate data analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using paired sample t-test and one-way ANCOVA. Results revealed that all groups enhanced their writing skills and classroom engagement after the intervention. However, the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group regarding writing skills. Additionally, students in the ChatGPT-assisted group reported higher levels of behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement compared to the traditional learning group. These findings suggest that integrating AI-based tools like ChatGPT can serve as effective pedagogical support in EFL writing classrooms by enhancing both linguistic competence and learner engagement. Accordingly, it is imperative to provide targeted professional development programs for educators to effectively incorporate AI technologies into instructional practices, and future research should explore the long-term effects of AI-assisted learning on language acquisition.
Keywords. ChatGPT; EFL; descriptive writing; classroom engagement
Biography
Khanh Nguyen Phuong Tran is a lecturer at Department of Foreign Languages, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Vinh Long University of Technology Education, Vietnam. Her research interests include online learning, digital interactive media, computer-assisted language learning, AR/VR, digital intercultural communication dynamics, and service-learning.
Ngan Phuong Nguyen is a lecturer at the Faculty of Foreign Languages, Vietnam Aviation Academy. Her research interests include STEAM education and the use of technology to enhance language learning, with a focus on integrating innovative tools and methods to improve language acquisition.
Cathy Weng is a professor at the Graduate Institute of Digital Learning and Education, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan. Her research interests include human-computer interaction, interactive storybooks, technology-enhanced language learning, AR/VR, digital intercultural communication dynamics, and service-learning.
Husni Mubarok is a lecturer at Educational Technology Study Program, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia. His research interests include mobile learning and flipped classrooms.
Tsai-Ju Lee is an assistant professor at the Graduate Institute of Digital Learning and Education at National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan. Her research centres on lifelong development, intergenerational education, life education, and the integration of digital technology into teaching.
