Exploring the Importance and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in English Language Teaching and Learning in Developing Country (Afghanistan)

Technology has an impact on the education system, and it has made English language teaching and learning accessible to non-English speakers worldwide. English has become the language of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in developed countries. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a new trend in English language teaching and has been experienced in developed countries' education systems since the first decade of the 21st century. Meanwhile, AI-based tools are integrated into English language classrooms in developing countries. In Afghanistan, schools and universities lack equipped English classrooms. Lecturers and students cannot connect with new explorations in the field of ELT (English Language Teaching) due to the lack of Internet and implementation of technological tools at public universities. This qualitative study explores AI-based technologies practised in English language teaching in the EFL context. Moreover, it explores the procedure for executing AI-based tools in educational institutions in developing countries. This study was conducted through a systematic literature review to find in-depth information about AI tools in EFL settings. The current study revealed that AI-based technologies support students and teachers to master English language skills in developing countries such as Afghanistan. Smart teaching approaches and smart environments train creative and autonomous students. Grammarly is an AI-powered tool for correcting spelling and grammatical mistakes, and it saves students and teachers time developing their writing skills. Also, Kahoot and Quizlet are experienced in assessing students' performance in EFL (English as a Foreign Language) courses, which help teachers quickly assess hundreds and thousands of students. AI-powered technologies benefit the Ministry of Education by educating rural area residents in English. Finally, emerging AI-based tools for English subjects should start in schools in Afghanistan because they are the foundation for developing the education system in the 21st century.