Investigating the Promises and Perils of Generative AI in EFL Learning in Higher Education: A Literature Review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj.251611

Keywords:

Generative artificial intelligence, GenAI, EFL, benefits, drawbacks

Abstract

In most disciplines, especially education, the spread of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has been a hot topic. Since OpenAI launched ChatGPT (generative pre-trained transformer) in 2022, GenAI has garnered worldwide interest; as a result, the advent of GenAI has had significant applications for a number of fields, including language instruction. The teaching and learning of English as a foreign language (EFL) in higher education could be greatly improved by GenAI. This narrative review provides an overview of GenAI’s background, its promising future, and functions in assisting English language learners, after which the difficulties that EFL students may have when using GenAI in their learning process are presented. Finally, the review presents findings on the benefits and limitations of GenAI, followed by a discussion of its implications. This study aims to equip EFL instructors and learners with the knowledge needed to leverage GenAI effectively, fostering more successful and interesting learning environments.

Author Biographies

Nguyen Thanh Huyen, HCMC University of Industry and Trade, Vietnam

Huyen Nguyen Thanh has been a lecturer of HCMC University of Food Industry since January 2021. She graduated from HCMC University of Pedagogy, Vietnam, majored in English Language Teaching. She has been teaching English for nearly 10 years, with students varying from different levels and ages. Currently, she is showing her interests in the field of education and English language teaching at universities.

Hoang Thi Ngoc Hien, HCMC University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam

Hoang Thi Ngoc Hien, a lecturer and Assistant Dean at HCMC University of Economics and Finance (UEF) for 5 years, holds a BA from HCMC University of Pedagogy and an MA in Applied Linguistics from University of Curtin. With prior experience at HCMC University of Technology and Ton Duc Thang University, her teaching career emphasizes innovation and student success. Her research interests span language acquisition, English language teaching (ELT) methodologies including AI tools, task-based learning, drama techniques, and service-learning. She actively participates in professional development workshops and international conferences.

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Published

27-01-2025

How to Cite

Nguyen, T. H., & Hoang, T. N. H. (2025). Investigating the Promises and Perils of Generative AI in EFL Learning in Higher Education: A Literature Review. AsiaCALL Online Journal, 16(1), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj.251611

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 1 (2025): Computer-Assisted Language Learning

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Research Article

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Copyright (c) 2025 Nguyen Thanh Huyen, Hoang Thi Ngoc Hien

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