A Study on Understanding Students’ Perspectives Regarding the Integration of ChatGPT in an EFL Waiting Class

This research aims to explore the integration of ChatGPT as a writing assistant in an English writing course, focusing on student perspectives obtained through surveys and interviews. The study evaluates ChatGPT's effectiveness, potential, and limitations in educational settings. While most participants found ChatGPT easy to use and helpful for writing tasks, survey results revealed notable concerns in the Concerns and Limitations section. Students appreciated ChatGPT s ability to generate outlines and correct grammar, but interviews criticized its lack of personal engagement and creativity. Moreover, there were major worries regarding the authenticity and ethical aspects of content produced by AT. The study suggests the need for enhancing ChatGPT's user-friendliness, providing special training on prompt writing, and emphasizing the irreplaceable role of human instructors in developing students' creative and critical thinking skills. Comprehensive ethical training on AI usage is recommended to ensure responsible and effective integration of AI tools in education. In conclusion, while ChatGPT offers significant benefits as a writing assistant, addressing its challenges will help teachers enhance the learning experience and maintain educational integrity, ensuring a balanced and ethically sound education. (Mokpo National University)