How AI Is Ushering in a New Era in ELT: Teachers’ Perspectives

Abstract

The full potential and practical applications of an Artificial Intelligence-based language teaching and learning scenario still need to be fully understood. Previous studies have focused on theoretical concepts and specific tools or features, leaving gaps in understanding AI’s overall impact and effectiveness from EFL teachers’ perspective. Therefore, this study explores AI’s potential for teaching, learning, and professional development in teaching English as a foreign language (EFL)/English as a second language (ESL). This quantitative study closely evaluated the opportunities and obstacles of AI in English Language Teaching (ELT) to gauge its transformative potential. This study would substantially contribute to the ongoing debate on the role of AI in teaching English through a comprehensive analysis of such factors along with the primary data collected through a semi-structured questionnaire. The study shows that AI-powered engagement strategies can transform education and training for EFL/ESL students and teachers. Therefore, its implementation is important. The participants believed that even if the application of AI in ELT has many disadvantages, AI benefits teachers' professional development and learners' academic achievement. This study can help teachers and policymakers make informed choices about using AI tools in ELT.