Original Research
Language Assessment and Learning through AI Technology: An Exploratory Study on Using GPT for Young EFL Learners’ Writing
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With the rapid advancement of generative AI technology using large language models, various AI tools have emerged for educational use. Among these tools, ChatGPT has gained traction in second language (L2) writing due to its significant potential as a writing assistant for ESL/EFL learners. This study explored how young EFL students interact with and utilize feedback generated by GPT-4 for their writing. Conducted within the context of developing an automated writing feedback tool to support potential TOEFL Junior Writing test users, this article reports on our small-scale prototyping study, detailing the development of the prototype tool. Building on the extensive work by Carol Chapelle on the use of technology in L2 learning and assessment, our study offers new insights into young EFL students’ use of generative AI technology in their L2 writing development. The implications of our findings for further research and practice for using generative AI technology in language assessment and learning for young learners are discussed.
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Keywords
Automated Writing Feedback; Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI); Young EFL Learners; Technology; Writing Assessment
Author(s) Information
Publisher’s Note
The claims, arguments, and counter-arguments made in this article are exclusively those of the contributing authors. Hence, they do not necessarily represent the viewpoints of the authors’ affiliated institutions, or EUROKD as the publisher, the editors and the reviewers of the article.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the valuable assitance of their colleaguie, Jean Alderman, in the development of the tool and the collection of data. They also wish to express their sincere appreciation to the teachers and students who participated in this study.
Funding
Not applicable.
CRediT Authorship Contribution Statement
Mikyung Kim Wolf: Conceptualization, Methodology, Investigation, Writing-Original Draft, Writing-Review & Editing, Supervision
Michael Suhan: Methodology, Software, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Data Curation, Writing-Original Draft, Writing-Review & Editing, Project administration
Generative AI Use Disclosure Statement
No generative AI tools were used in the writing of this article.
Ethics Declarations
World Medical Association (WMA) Declaration of Helsinki–Ethical Principles for Medical Research Involving Human Participants
Not applicable.
Competing Interests
There are no competing interests.
Data Availability
The data are available from the authors upon reasonable request.