The Benefits and Challenges of Using Artificial Intelligence in Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Higher Education

This study explores the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, particularly in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in higher education. AI has been applied in TEFL since the 1950s and developed significantly over the decades. However, it has received global attention in the last two years after introducing ChatGPT and other similar Generative AI (GenAl) applications. Implementing AI provides benefits and challenges to educators and students in English learning and teaching (ELT). This study examines systematic literature reviews regarding the benefits and challenges of employing AI toward ELT in higher education. This study synthesizes previous research to enhance insights into TEFL by applying AI effectively. Applying AI to teach English as a foreign language has several benefits and challenges. These can be summarized in the dimensions of using machine learning, chatbots, intelligent virtual environments, translation tools, multidimensional ethics, and social media. Each dimension provides valuable benefits and considers the challenges for educators in delivering English as a foreign language at the university level. The benefits of utilizing AI in TEFL are evolutionary and revolutionary changes in teaching methods, personalized learning environments, better management, and more accessible education. Despite these benefits, the challenges of utilizing AI can be identified as computational issues, limited language exposure, and lack of human interaction. Furthermore, this study can enhance the understanding and insight of implementing AI in teaching English as a foreign language by minimizing the challenges and optimizing the benefits of AI.