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Artificial Intelligence and the Evolution of English Language Acquisition: Opportunities and Challenges for ESL Pedagogy in the Digital Age
Subject area: Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities · Area of research: English Language Acquisition
Abstract
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into global education systems has transformed teaching methodologies, especially in the context of English as a Second Language (ESL). This paper explores the implications of AI on ESL education, focusing on the shifting paradigms in language acquisition, teaching practices, and the role of teachers. Using China and South Korea as case studies, the paper critically analyzes how AI-powered platforms such as ChatGPT, Duolingo, and automated essay-scoring systems are reshaping ESL learning environments. It also evaluates the ethical concerns, linguistic identity implications, and the need for culturally responsive AI. By employing a sociolinguistic and constructivist lens, this study urges educators, researchers, and policymakers to harness AI's benefits while preserving linguistic diversity and cultural identity in ESL contexts.
Keywords
artificial intelligence, english as a second language, language acquisition, educational technology, cultural identity, sociolinguistics
How to cite this paper
@article{1722381,
author = {Ajayi, Esther Ajibike, Adetoro, Abiodun, Adeyemo, Nelson Gbenga},
title = {Artificial Intelligence and the Evolution of English Language Acquisition: Opportunities and Challenges for ESL Pedagogy in the Digital Age},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2026},
volume = {10},
number = {2},
pages = {2183-2186},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1722381.pdf},
abstract = {The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into global education systems has transformed teaching methodologies, especially in the context of English as a Second Language (ESL). This paper explores the implications of AI on ESL education, focusing on the shifting paradigms in language acquisition, teaching practices, and the role of teachers. Using China and South Korea as case studies, the paper critically analyzes how AI-powered platforms such as ChatGPT, Duolingo, and automated essay-scoring systems are reshaping ESL learning environments. It also evaluates the ethical concerns, linguistic identity implications, and the need for culturally responsive AI. By employing a sociolinguistic and constructivist lens, this study urges educators, researchers, and policymakers to harness AI's benefits while preserving linguistic diversity and cultural identity in ESL contexts.},
keywords = {artificial intelligence, english as a second language, language acquisition, educational technology, cultural identity, sociolinguistics},
month = {August},
}