THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING PEDAGOGY: OPPORTUNITIES, LIMITATIONS, AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, particularly generative AI such as ChatGPT, has transformed English language teaching (ELT) pedagogy. This paper explores the opportunities, limitations, and ethical considerations associated with integrating AI into ELT practices. Drawing on recent empirical studies and systematic reviews from international journals (2023–2025), it highlights how AI enhances personalized learning, provides dynamic feedback, and boosts learner motivation and engagement. However, challenges include overreliance on technology, potential biases in AI outputs, inaccuracies in language nuances, and risks to critical thinking development. Ethical issues, such as data privacy, academic integrity, and equity in access, are also examined. The findings suggest that while AI offers significant pedagogical affordances, its effective integration requires teacher training, critical oversight, and ethical guidelines to complement rather than replace human instruction. This review contributes to ongoing discussions on AI's role in fostering inclusive and effective English language pedagogy.