The use of artificial intelligence in English language lessons
Nozli Abdullayeva
Student,
Arkalyk Pedagogical University named after Y. Altynsarin,
Kazakhstan, Arkalyk
Zhazira Ospanova
Teacher of Educational Program «English», « Two Foreign Languages»
Arkalyk Pedagogical University named after Y. Altynsarin,
Kazakhstan, Arkalyk
«Artificial intelligence is neither good nor evil.
It’s a tool. It’s a technology we can use.»
– Oren Etzioni
Abstract
This article explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into English language learning and its transformative impact on both teaching and student engagement. It highlights the role of AI-powered tools—particularly chatbots and educational platforms—in providing personalized, interactive, and efficient learning experiences. The study examines popular AI applications such as ChatGPT, Replika, Giglish, and Duolingo, outlining their functionalities and educational value. Key benefits include instant feedback, adaptive learning, enhanced student motivation, and support for independent study. Additionally, the article addresses the ethical and pedagogical limitations of relying on AI, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human involvement in language education. Overall, AI is presented as a powerful complement to traditional teaching methods, with the potential to reshape the future of English language instruction. In today’s world, artificial intelligence (AI) is penetrating all spheres of education, and English language learning is no exception. The use of AI in English lessons opens up new possibilities for teaching and learning.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, chatbot, neural networks, English language.
With the emergence of advanced language models such as GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), both teachers and students now have a unique opportunity to practice English in an interactive format. Language models powered by AI can generate texts, tasks, and dialogues tailored to the language proficiency level of each learner.
There is a wide range of chatbots available for foreign language learning. Among the most popular are Replika, Giglish, Vondy, Speaking Club AI, Character AI, Andy, and ChatGPT. These chatbots offer various functions that make it possible to integrate them into English lessons.
Therefore, the requirements for AI-based chatbots are significantly higher than those for other types of learning tools:
1. Feedback availability. Dialogue with a chatbot helps break the psychological barrier in expressing personal opinions, often caused by the inability to identify and correct one’s own mistakes.
2. Voice input. To develop speaking skills, it is necessary to say phrases aloud, not just type them, since written and spoken language differ significantly.
3. Customizability. The chatbot adapts to the student’s language level, helping to maintain motivation and provide a smooth progression from simple to complex.
4. Audio support. Each message from the AI includes pronunciation of phrases and sentences, allowing students to compare their own answers with a model, correct errors, and reinforce proper pronunciation.
The use of AI-powered chatbots opens new horizons in English lessons. Their personalized approach, interactive nature, and automated communication make learning more effective and engaging for students.
Among such tools, Replika holds a leading position. It adapts to the user’s communication style during conversations, offering a high degree of personalization and informal dialogue. Giglish allows learners not only to chat but also to rehearse specific communicative situations. It features a wide variety of conversational scenarios. Speaking Club AI includes a built-in translation function, allowing students to check meanings or translations when uncertain. Character AI enables users to converse with famous characters from movies, anime, TV shows, and history, thereby motivating learners through unconventional conversation partners.
Beyond chatbots, AI enables the creation of unique educational solutions. Modern AI-based technologies can adapt the learning process to each student’s needs, taking into account learning pace, comprehension levels, and overall knowledge.
AI also simplifies the assessment of students’ knowledge. Automated systems can analyze written and spoken work, identify mistakes, and suggest improvements. This allows teachers to more accurately monitor student progress and adapt the curriculum accordingly. In this way, AI can ease teacher workload and save significant time.
Here are several websites for preparing English lessons using AI:
—Twee.com
-Interacty.me
-D-ID.com
Twee.com is designed specifically for foreign language teachers. AI-powered tools offered on this platform include:
1.Working with video (creating texts and questions based on video content);
2.Reading comprehension (generating texts on specific topics, exercises, and dialogues);
3.Vocabulary building (selecting words, creating vocabulary exercises);
4.Grammar practice (creating grammar exercises);
5.Speaking practice (creating questions and topics);
6. Homework ideas (generating creative writing tasks).
Interacty.me allows users to create quests, mini-games, quizzes, and slideshows. Its powerful interactive editor supports the implementation of nearly any idea.
D-ID.com applies AI to synthetic avatars that can move and speak based on a photo. This application transforms still portraits into highly realistic, moving ‘talking heads.’ It can be used for lessons where a live lecturer is unnecessary — a photo and a voice recording are enough.
For personalized English learning, mobile apps based on AI (virtual tutors) allow students to practice spoken English in a comfortable environment. One of the most popular apps is Duolingo, which uses a gamified approach to language learning. Babbel offers structured courses at various levels, with a large database of words and phrases. Memrise provides exercises based on users’ interests and offers language learning through video and audio materials.
These are several positive moments or benefits of using AI in English lessons:
- Personalized Learning
AI can adapt to each student’s level, providing customized feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and writing style. This helps both struggling and advanced learners improve at their own pace.
- Instant Feedback
Students get immediate corrections and suggestions, which keeps them engaged and speeds up learning—especially in writing and grammar exercises.
- Increases Student Motivation
Using AI tools feels modern and exciting. Students often enjoy working with technology, which can boost participation and interest in learning English.
- Enhances Creativity
AI can suggest story ideas, role-play scenarios, or alternative word choices, helping students be more creative in writing and speaking tasks.
- Supports Speaking Practice
AI-powered speech tools give pronunciation feedback, which is especially useful for shy students who hesitate to speak in front of others.
- Expands Vocabulary
AI can explain difficult words, offer synonyms, and create vocabulary quizzes tailored to any text the class is reading.
- Saves Teacher Time
AI can help create quizzes, generate writing prompts, or provide grammar explanations—freeing up the teacher to focus on more interactive tasks.
- Encourages Independent Learning
Students can use AI tools outside the classroom for extra practice, fostering autonomy and responsibility for their own learning.
However, there are ethical concerns regarding the use of AI. Despite the advantages, AI has certain limitations due to the lack of human qualities. Morality, motivation, empathy, and independent understanding are often absent in direct interaction between students and AI. This may hinder comprehension and even lead to psychological difficulties.
The absence of human qualities can also limit the development of students’ creative and analytical abilities. It is important not only to transfer knowledge but also to foster creative thinking.
Despite its drawbacks, AI should be viewed as a technology of the future that can significantly enhance approaches to English language learning and education in general.
As algorithms improve and AI capabilities expand, we can expect more effective, accessible, and personalized methods for learning English for all students.
References
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