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Nour Al Okla, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab EmiratesAbstract
The use of AI-driven tools in language education has significantly increased due to their convenience and effectiveness. Research highlighted many benefits of using AI in language education such as improved efficiency and speed of learning (Xie et al., 2019), increased personalized learning (Kessler, 2018), and effective real-time feedback (Chen et al., 2021; De la Vall & Araya, 2023). While previous studies primarily investigated the cognitive benefits of using AI tools in language education, the influence of these tools on the social and emotional aspects of the learning process is yet to be explored. This study focuses on the impact of AI-driven language learning technologies on the social and emotional competencies among English language college learners. The study was conducted using an explanatory sequential method design. In the quantitative phase, 137 undergraduate students from one university in the UAE were surveyed to investigate the influence of using AI tools like ChatGPT, Mizou, and BitLife on their SEL competencies (including self-awareness, empathy, and social interaction). This phase was followed by semi-structured interviews with 7 participants to explore their perceptions of the impact of using AI tools on their emotional growth and peer interaction during the learning process. The findings revealed a complex relationship between the use of AI-driven tools and social-emotional learner development, particularly in relation to the learners’ self-confidence, motivation, emotional regulation, and peer collaboration. The study calls for a balanced integration of AI tools in language education while providing adequate training to educators and learners.
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