The Impact of ChatGPT on EFL Learners' Writing Performance

Abstract

EFL learners often face difficulties in constructing coherent, well-written texts. With the rapid development of AI technologies, increasing interest has emerged in their ability to support language learning, especially writing. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of using Artificial Intelligence tools, specifically ChatGPT, on EFL learners’ writing skills. Through a mixed-method approach involving written tests and a questionnaire, the study examines how ChatGPT can contribute to improving EFL students’ writing skills. Data were gathered through a questionnaire, a pre-test, and a post-test. Forty-five EFL learners participated in the questionnaire, while twenty participated in the pre-test and post-test stages. The participants were third-year students in the Department of English, College of Education for Humanities, at Al-Hamdaniya University. The results indicate significant improvements in students’ writing performance across all measured writing criteria following the ChatGPT-assisted writing activities. The findings also demonstrate that students had positive opinions about using ChatGPT to develop their English writing abilities. However, they reported various difficulties when using ChatGPT as a writing support tool. The study suggests that ChatGPT may serve as a supportive tool for EFL learners’ academic writing development, while emphasizing the important roles of teachers and learners’ independent learning.