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Cited by 299EFL/ESL Teaching and LearningEnglish Language Learning and TeachingArtificial Intelligence in Education

The DOI matches its Crossref record; 58 of the 59 references it cites were found in a registry or an index.

Exploring AI-mediated informal digital learning of English (AI-IDLE): a mixed-method investigation of Chinese EFL learners’ AI adoption and experiences

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Liu, Guangxiang Leon, Darvin, Ron, Ma, Chaojun·2025·Computer Assisted Language Learning
DOI 10.1080/09588221.2024.2310288
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Abstract

Recent advancements in natural language processing and large language models have ushered language learning into the age of artificial intelligence (AI).Recognizing the affordances of generative AI tools, this paper aims to examine the degree to which L2 learners accepted and leveraged large language model platforms (e.g.ChatGPT, Bing Chat) for the informal digital learning of English (IDLE) purposes.Employing an explanatory sequential mixed-method design, this study draws on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and collects data via an adapted TAM questionnaire and an interview guide.A total of 867 Chinese EFL (English as a foreign language) learners answered the online survey, while 20 attended the post-survey interviews.Drawing on a validated structural model that elucidates the inter-factor relationships of perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, intention to use, and actual use, the quantitative analysis provides statistical accounts for EFL learners' adoption of Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) technologies.The qualitative findings, derived from the interview data, reveal three key themes: (1) how perceived usefulness of chatbots for IDLE emerges from hands-on experimentation with these tools; (2) how intention to use increases as learners negotiate chatbot affordances and constraints; and (3) how actual use of chatbots for IDLE involves using these tools as tutors or conversation partners.Connections between quantitative and qualitative findings enhance our understanding of how EFL learners negotiate the affordances and constraints of highly capable AI technologies to participate in creative IDLE practices.By understanding these practices, this study draws attention to the attitudes and practices that constitute AI literacies, ultimately offering implications for future classroom practices and research.

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Metadata

Authors
Liu, G. L., Darvin, R., & Ma, C.
Affiliations
  • Chinese University of Hong Kong (HK)
  • University of British Columbia (CA)
  • City University of Hong Kong (HK)
Corresponding author
Liu, Guangxiang Leon
ORCID
Venue
Computer Assisted Language Learning
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Published
2024-02-02
Volume
38
Issue
7
Pages
1632-1660
ISSN
  • 0958-8221 (ISSN-L)
  • 1744-3210
DOI
10.1080/09588221.2024.2310288
OpenAlex
W4391473908
Cited by
299
References
59
Citations by year
2026: 145 · 2025: 125 · 2024: 29
FWCI
470.26
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Computer Assisted Language Learning (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc-nd)
  • CityU Scholars (submittedVersion, cc-by-nc-nd)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › Language and Linguistics › EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning
  • Social Sciences › Education › English Language Learning and Teaching
  • Social Sciences › Education › Artificial Intelligence in Education
Keywords
generative AI in language learning, large language models, informal digital learning, English as a foreign language, Chinese learners of English, artificial intelligence adoption, technology acceptance model, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, intention to use, AI literacy, ChatGPT, Bing Chat

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