The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Students' Learning Habits: The Case of EFL Master Students at the University of Ain Temouchent

Abstract

The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in the field of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching and learning is gaining significant importance because of increased students' use of AI tools and teachers' struggles to adjust to modern technological innovations. This study focuses on the effect of AI competence among teachers on the teaching and learning processes and on the learning habits of students in EFL. Moreover, this study attempts to determine whether self-learning can assist teachers in bridging the gap between themselves and AI in the field of education. This study employed the case study method at the University of Ain Temouchent. For data collection, semi-structured interview was conducted with six EFL teachers, while questionnaires were administered to 161 EFL Master students in order to investigate their perceptions towards use of AI technologies in EFL education, their dependence on these technologies, as well as impact on critical thinking skills and learning practices. The results showed that the majority of teachers had inadequate knowledge about the implementation of AI within EFL education and insufficient experience in this area, whereas students used various AI applications intensively while conducting their academic work. Moreover, excessive reliance on AI was shown to have negative implications for students' critical thinking skills and learning behaviour. However, the self-training process proved successful in terms of teachers' increased competency and self-confidence in the utilization of AI technology. In conclusion, the results of the current study emphasized the need for promoting the development of AI competence among teachers and institutional support in its effective implementation.