Benefits and Challenges of Using ChatGPT: An Exploratory Study on English Language Program

Abstract

This study was conducted during the early stages of ChatGPT's emergence to explore faculty members' perceptions of its benefits and challenges in the field of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Employing an exploratory descriptive research design, the study gathered both quantitative and qualitative data from a sample of 58 faculty members at the University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire consisting of closed-ended and open- ended items was utilized to collect information about the opportunities presented by ChatGPT and the challenges it poses in the field of EFL. The results indicated that while most EFL teachers held a highly positive view of ChatGPT's contribution to English language teaching and learning in higher education, some expressed concerns regarding issues such as plagiarism and overreliance on chatbots, with minimal effort from the learners themselves. No differences were reported in the teachers' perceptions of the benefits and challenges of using ChatGPT attributed to gender. Moreover, teachers with teaching experience between 6-10 years had significantly more positive perceptions compared to the other two groups. Based on these findings, the study suggests conducting further research with a larger sample size to uncover the actual utilization of ChatGPT and its impact on EFL learning and teaching. To harness the potential of this technology effectively, teachers can incorporate ChatGPT-based teaching methods to enhance students' language learning. The findings highlighted the importance of providing training to teachers on how to engage students positively with ChatGPT while mitigating its negative consequences.

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