The Impact of ChatGPT on Vocabulary Learning in L3 German Class

Although technology is an established issue in applied linguistics, integrating chatbots, particularly ChatGPT into language learning, especially third-language (L3) learning, is a novel and mystic issue. To demystify this integration, the current study explores the role of ChatGPT in enhancing vocabulary learning, which makes up the skeleton of language, in L3 German class since multilingualism is becoming a norm nowadays. The participants of this exploratory qualitative case study, who are A1-level German learners, are three university students. They read and analyse five different ChatGPT-created texts and adapt the topic of texts to themselves via ChatGPT in which they are supposed to incorporate theme-related keywords throughout five weeks. Data is gathered through semi-structured interviews, vocabulary tests, and reflective journals. Grounded theory was conducted to analyse the data. The findings provide insights into the participants’ academic achievement through cognitive and affective dimensions. Pedagogical implications are discussed.