Investigating the Impact of Using ChatGPT on EFL Students’ Motivation to Learn.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence has brought several changes to the realm of education. It resulted in significant improvements in learning English as a foreign language. At the present time, the use of AI systems for learning is steadily increasing. In schools and universities, we have noticed that EFL students rely on ChatGPT, which may have an impact on their motivation and desire to learn. As a result, this research aims to investigate the impact of ChatGPT on EFL students' motivation to learn. Three main research questions were raised: Does the use of ChatGPT increase or decrease EFL learners‘ motivation to learn? How does ChatGPT influence the intrinsic and extrinsic motivation of EFL learners? Which type of motivation is most influenced by EFL learners' use of ChatGPT? Hence, it is hypothesized that ChatGPT use increases EFL learners‘ motivation, primarily through instrumental and intrinsic motivation. In order to test the hypothesis, the study employs a descriptive research design with a quantitative approach, utilizing a questionnaire that includes a form of a motivational scale among other questions. It was administered to 58 Master 1 EFL students at AbdElhafidBoussouf University Centre-Mila. The findings suggest that ChatGPT use increases EFL learners' motivation, primarily driven by instrumental and intrinsic motivation. Moreover, participants exhibited a presence of integrative motivation, signifying a deeper interest in cultural and personal development. However, extrinsic motivation appeared to be the least influential aspect. The study concludes with recommendations for teachers, learners, and future research with the goal of focusing on learners' motivation when using ChatGPT in EFL learning.