STUDENTS' RELIANCE ON AI TOOLS IN EFL COURSES IN HIGHER EDUCATION: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

In recent years, use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly popular among university students who are learning English Language. Furthermore, it addresses concerns regarding the potential for students to become overly dependent on AI applications in their language learning. It is important to ensure that technology serves as a tool to enhance learning, rather than a substitute for fundamental skills. While AI is increasingly taking on various roles in education, there has been limited research work examining students' attitudes, perceptions towards its use, especially in the context of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). This study aimed to identify students’ views on current usages of AI powered tools, and its advantages and disadvantages of using AI in English learning, it included 211 students from anonymous university in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The questionnaire was developed and distributed by using Microsoft forms. Based on data results of both open & close ended questions, this study employed a mixed-method approach integrating qualitative and quantitative research analysis. The research results indicate that students recognize the potential risks of over-relying on AI, particularly its adverse impact on their productive skills. They noted that AI often provides unreliable responses and expressed that they have not been educated on the ethical aspects of AI, emphasizing the necessity for more guidelines in utilizing AI for learning English. Moreover, the study emphasizes the significance of incorporating balanced integration to prevent reliance on AI in language education.