Designing foreign language learning activities using generative artificial intelligence tools: potential and limitations

This paper addresses the issue of using generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools for the purpose of educational content creation. The aim of the study is to assess the potential and identify the limitations of GenAI in designing English teaching materials. AI-generated content is evaluated based on the following criteria: linguistic-pedagogical accuracy, ease of creation, and need for subsequent revision. The scientific novelty of this study lies in assessing the effectiveness of using AI tools such as СhatGPT, Perplexity, GigaChat for generating diverse exercises for teaching English as a foreign language based on the analysis of authentic tasks from Oxford and Macmillan coursebooks (intermediate and upper-intermediate level). The experimental results suggest that AI tools can be effectively used for generating grammar and vocabulary drills and phonetic exercises, for making glossaries, multiple choice tests, scenarios for communicative situations, as well as creating text materials and translation exercises. However, when it comes to generating freer practice activities aimed at developing students’ critical thinking and fostering spontaneous classroom communication, the limitations of using AI tools become markedly apparent.