EFL Learners’ Perception of ChatGPT Integration in English Learning: Motivation, Skills, and Pedagogical Development

Authors

  • Militansina Militansina State Institute for Islamic Studies (IAIN) Pontianak

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36312/jolls.v5i3.3402

Keywords:

ChatGPT, AI in education, Motivation, Language skills development, Pedagogical integration

Abstract

This research explores the integration of ChatGPT, a generative AI language model, into English language learning in higher education, emphasizing students’ perspectives on motivation, skill development, and pedagogical integration challenges. Drawing on interpretative qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with seven undergraduate students in Indonesia, the research identifies how ChatGPT enhances students’ autonomy, confidence, and engagement, especially in writing, grammar, and vocabulary development. While students report strong intrinsic motivation and reduced anxiety due to ChatGPT’s non-judgmental interface, they also acknowledge limitations in speaking and listening support. Thematic analysis reveals key themes including emotional responses, perceived usefulness, challenges in trust and overreliance, and expectations for institutional support in pedagogical integration. The findings highlight the importance of lecturer guidance and ethical AI literacy to ensure responsible use. This study contributes by providing empirical evidence on how AI integration can reshape language learning practices, offering clear directions for educators in designing effective instructional strategies and for policymakers in formulating guidelines that balance innovation with responsible use.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Author Biography

  • Militansina Militansina, State Institute for Islamic Studies (IAIN) Pontianak

    Tadris English Study Program, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, State Institute for Islamic Studies (IAIN) Pontianak, Jl. Letjend. Soeprapto No. 19, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia

References

Akinwalere, S. N., & Ivanov, V. (2022). Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Challenges and Opportunities. Border Crossing, 12(1), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.33182/bc.v12i1.2015

Anney. V. N. (2014). Ensuring the Quality of the Findings of Qualitative Research: Looking at Trustworthiness Criteria. Journal of Emerging Trends in Educational Research and Policy Studies (JETERAPS), 5(2), 272–281.

Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The Exercise of Control. W.H. Freeman.

Barrot, J. S. (2023). Using ChatGPT for Second Language Writing: Pitfalls and Potentials. Assessing Writing, 57(100745), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asw.2023.100745

Boulton, A. (2016). Data-Driven Learning and Language Pedagogy. In S. Thorne & S. May (Eds.), Language, Education and Technology: Encyclopedia of Language and Education. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-02328-1_15-1

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa

Bruner, J. S. (1996). The Culture of Education. Harvard University Press.

Daubney, M., Dewaele, J.-M., & Gkonou, C. (2017). Preliminary Thoughts on Language Anxiety and the Focus of This Anthology. In New Insights into Language Anxiety: Theory, Research and Educational Implications (pp. 1–8). Multilingual Matters. https://doi.org/10.21832/9781783097722-002

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Determination in Human Behavior. Plenum. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-2271-7

Denzin, N. K., & Lincoln, Y. S. (2011). The Sage Handbook of Qualitative Research (4th ed). Sage Publication.

Dong, L. (2024). ChatGPT in Language Writing Education: Reflections and a Research Agenda for a ChatGPT Feedback Engagement Framework. Language Teaching Research Quarterly, 43, 121–131. https://doi.org/10.32038/ltrq.2024.43.07

Dörnyei, Z. (2001). Motivational Strategies in the Language Classroom. Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511667343

Ertmer, P. A., & Ottenbreit-Leftwich, A. T. (2010). Teacher Technology Change: How Knowledge, Beliefs, and Culture Intersect. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 42(3), 255–284. https://doi.org/10.1080/15391523.2010.10782551

Faiz, R., Bilal, H. A., Asghar, I., & Safdar, A. (2024). Optimizing ChatGPT as a Writing Aid for EFL Learners: Balancing Assistance and Skill Development in Writing Proficiency. Linguistic Forum - A Journal of Linguistics, 5(3), 24–37.

Flower, L., & Hayes, J. R. (1981). A Cognitive Process Theory of Writing. College Composition and Communication, 32(4), 365–387. https://doi.org/10.2307/356600

Fryer, L. K., Thompson, A., Nakao, K., Howarth, M., & Gallacher, A. (2020). Supporting self-efficacy beliefs and interest as educational inputs and outcomes: Framing AI and Human partnered task experiences. Learning and Individual Differences, 80(101850), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lindif.2020.101850

Gardner, R. C. (1985). The Role of Attitudes and Motivation. In Social Psychology and Second Language Learning (pp. xiv–208). Arnold.

Garrison, D. R., Anderson, T., & Archer, W. (1999). Critical Inquiry in a Text-Based Environment: Computer Conferencing in Higher Education. The Internet and Higher Education, 2(2–3), 87–105. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1096-7516(00)00016-6

Godwin-Jones, R. (2021). Evolving Technologies for Language Learning. Language Learning & Technology, 25(3), 6–26.

Gupta, Y., Khan, F. M., & Agarwal, S. (2021). Exploring Factors Influencing Mobile Learning in Higher Education – A Systematic Review. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (IJIM), 15(12), 140–157. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v15i12.22503

Hockly, N. (2018). Blended Learning. ELT Journal, 72(1), 97–101. https://doi.org/10.1093/elt/ccx058

Horwitz, E. K., Horwitz, M. B., & Cope, J. (1986). Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety. The Modern Language Journal, 70(2), 125–132. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4781.1986.tb05256.x

Kasneci, E., Sessler, K., Küchemann, S., Bannert, M., Dementieva, D., Fischer, F., Gasser, U., Groh, G., Günnemann, S., Hüllermeier, E., Krusche, S., Kutyniok, G., Michaeli, T., Nerdel, C., Pfeffer, J., Poquet, O., Sailer, M., Schmidt, A., Seidel, T., … Kasneci, G. (2023). ChatGPT for good? On opportunities and challenges of large language models for education. Learning and Individual Differences, 103(102274), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lindif.2023.102274

Kim, M. C., & Hannafin, M. J. (2011). Scaffolding problem solving in technology-enhanced learning environments (TELEs): Bridging research and theory with practice. Computers & Education, 56(2), 403–417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2010.08.024

Kohnke, L., Moorhouse, B. L., & Zou, D. (2023). ChatGPT for Language Teaching and Learning. RELC Journal, 54(2), 537–550. https://doi.org/10.1177/00336882231162868

Kramsch, C. (1993). Context and Culture in Language Teaching. Oxford University Press.

Krashen, S. (1982). Principles and Practice in Second Language Acquisition. Pergamon.

Kukulska?Hulme, A., & Viberg, O. (2018). Mobile Collaborative Language Learning: State of The Art. British Journal of Educational Technology, 49(2), 207–218. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.12580

Liu, S., & Yu, G. (2022). L2 Learners’ Engagement with Automated Feedback: An Eye-Tracking Study. Language Learning & Technology, 26(2), 78–105.

Long, M. H. (1996). The Role of The Linguistic Environment in Second Language Acquisition. In W. C. Ritchie & T. K. Bhatia (Eds.), Handbook of Second Language Acquisition (pp. 413–468). Academic Press.

Luckin, R., Holmes, W., Griffiths, M., & Forcier, L. B. (2016). Intelligence Unleashed: An Argument for AI in Education. Pearson.

Mayer, Richard. E. (2009). Multimedia Learning (2nd Edition). Cambridge University Press.

Mishra, P., & Koehler, M. J. (2006). Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: A Framework for Teacher Knowledge. Teachers College Record: The Voice of Scholarship in Education, 108(6), 1017–1054. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9620.2006.00684.x

Nation, I. S. P. (2001). Learning Vocabulary in Another Language. Cambridge University Press.

Ng, D. T. K., Leung, J. K. L., Chu, S. K. W., & Qiao, M. S. (2021). Conceptualizing AI literacy: An Exploratory Review. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 2(100041), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2021.100041

Polakova, P., & Ivenz, P. (2024). The Impact of ChatGPT Feedback on The Development of EFL Students’ Writing Skills. Cogent Education, 11(1), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2024.2410101

Ravi Kumar, V. V, & Raman, R. (2022). Student Perceptions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education. 2022 IEEE Integrated STEM Education Conference (ISEC), 450–454. https://doi.org/10.1109/ISEC54952.2022.10025165

Reeve, J. (2009). Understanding Motivation and Emotion (5th ed). John Wiley & Sons.

Rost, M. (2011). Teaching and Researching Listening (2nd ed). Pearson Education.

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68

Salomon, G., & Perkins, D. N. (1989). Rocky Roads to Transfer: Rethinking Mechanism of a Neglected Phenomenon. Educational Psychologist, 24(2), 113–142. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15326985ep2402_1

Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning, 5(1), 1–9.

Sparrow, B., Liu, J., & Wegner, D. M. (2011). Google Effects on Memory: Cognitive Consequences of Having Information at Our Fingertips. Science, 333(6043), 776–778. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1207745

Swain, M. (2005). The Output Hypothesis: Theory and Research. In Handbook of Research in Second Language Teaching and Learning (pp. 471–483). Routledge.

Sykes, J. M., Oskoz, A., & Thorne, S. L. (2013). Web 2.0, Synthetic Immersive Environments, and Mobile Resources for Language Education. Calico Journal, 25(3), 528–546.

Tan, X., Cheng, G., & Ling, M. H. (2025). Artificial intelligence in teaching and teacher professional development: A systematic review. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 8(100355), 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2024.100355

Teräs, M. (2022). Education and technology: Key issues and debates. International Review of Education, 68(4), 635–636. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11159-022-09971-9

Tour, E., Pegrum, M., & Macdonald, S. (2025). Engaging English language learners in AI literacy practices: A conceptual framework and practical strategies for educators. English Australia Journal, 41(1), 27–41. https://doi.org/10.61504/YBUY9086

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

Wang, X., Li, L., Tan, S. C., Yang, L., & Lei, J. (2023). Preparing for AI-enhanced education: Conceptualizing and empirically examining teachers’ AI readiness. Computers in Human Behavior, 146(107798), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2023.107798

Warschauer, M., & Liaw, M. (2011). Emerging Technologies for Autonomous Language Learning. Studies in Self-Access Learning Journal, 2(3), 107–118.

Wu, C.-H., Weng, T.-S., & Liu, C.-H. (2025). Exploring ChatGPT’s Potential to Enhance Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking in Education. Educational Technology & Society, 28(2), 310–326.

Zawacki-Richter, O., Marín, V. I., Bond, M., & Gouverneur, F. (2019). Systematic Review of Research on Artificial Intelligence Applications in Higher Education – Where are The Educators? International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 16(39), 1–27. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-019-0171-0

Downloads

Published

2025-09-17

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Militansina, M. (2025). EFL Learners’ Perception of ChatGPT Integration in English Learning: Motivation, Skills, and Pedagogical Development. Journal of Language and Literature Studies, 5(3), 807-821. https://doi.org/10.36312/jolls.v5i3.3402