Unlocking the Learning Potential: ChatGPT as a Virtual Platform for Cross-Interaction in English Language Learning

We explored how participants learning English as a foreign language (EFL) perceive the use of ChatGPT for English communication in combination with voice control for GPT, a Google Chrome extension, both of which are AI chatbot functionalities. A revised version of the ChatGPT Engagement and Perception Questionnaire (CEPQ) was distributed to 70 participants. The results indicated a generally positive response: participants recognized ChatGPT’s beneficial effect on their confidence in English communication, their indirect interaction experiences with people from different cultural backgrounds, and their familiarity with the system. Overall, 66% of the participants had prior experience with ChatGPT, 65% noted an increase in curiosity, and 77% reported improved confidence in communicating in English. However, 33% experienced frustration due to ChatGPT’s occasional misunderstandings, pointing to the need for enhanced natural language processing capabilities. While 31% expected easy communication with an AI chatbot, the same proportion struggled with pronunciation comprehension. The installation of the voice control extension was straightforward for 57% of participants. A notable challenge was time management, with 47% finding the time allotted for practice tasks insufficient, underscoring the importance of addressing this to improve student engagement and learning outcomes. These results provide a reference on user experiences with AI chatbots in the context of English language learning.