Exploring New Insights on the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools to Facilitate Linguistic Proficiency of Undergraduate Foreign Language (FL) Learners

Abstract

The extension of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the domain of foreign language education has not only proven beneficial to language students, but also to those who are learning foreign languages. With the presence of AI tools in this domain, many opportunities are presented to learners to improve their linguistics proficiencies. With this in mind, the current study is aimed at exploring the potential of AI tools in facilitating the linguistic proficiency of undergraduate students studying foreign languages. Using a mixed research methodology, the research engaged ninety-three (93) participants who include foreign language (FL) intermediate-level learners, and foreign language (FL) teachers to seek their perspectives on the main goal of this research. The study also examines the efficacy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) apps. in enhancing the linguistic competency and the application of these apps. in the learning system of foreign language (FL) undergraduates such as language translation, chatbots, and adaptive learning platforms amongst others. Furthermore, relevant themes were highlighted from the analyzed data. The themes include linguistic proficiency enhancement, student’s engagement and motivation, personalization and adaptation, and pedagogical implication. Additionally, the research revealed that with specific AI tools, the linguistics proficiencies which include, speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills of foreign language (FL) undergraduates are strengthened. Nevertheless, the research encourages proper education of both foreign language teachers and students on how to use AI tools, to fully harness their benefits.