Enhancing EFL Learning Through Generative AI: Institutional Provisions and Challenges in Public Sector Universities of South Punjab

Author(s) : Dr Abdul Rashid , Shaher Bano , Tanveer Baig

Abstract:

Recently, the development of chatbots assisted by the artificial intelligence has opened up new dimensions in the field of education. Among such is the Chatgpt. It is taken as a Pharmeka – a poison and remedy at the same time. Some had taken it a serious threat to the creativity and human intelligence. While at the same time, generative artificial intelligence had revolutionized language learning process particularly of the English Language. The present study is aimed to gauge readiness and the institutional provisions & challenges to use artificial intelligence for academic purpose in the public sector universities of the South Punjab-Pakistan. For data collection the questionnaire was distributed among 200 hundred students of undergraduate and postgraduate students studying English language and literature at the following universities; University of Layyah, University of Jhang, University of Mianwali, Ghazi University D.G Khan, Islamia University Bahawalpur, Women University Multan, Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan. The population was selected on random sampling-based technique and the questionnaire was distributed online. Ten participants both male and female were interviewed at the University of Layyah as focused group. The findings of the study reveal that there is a high frequency of Chatgpt users in the academic domains. The students are using it for the academic purpose but without any professional experience and training. Hands on training to use artificial intelligence would make the language learning more personalized, interesting and effective for academic purpose.

Keywords: Generative AI, AI In Education, Academic Challenges, EFL Classrooms, Language Learning