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Student Engagement and Perceptions of AI-Powered Tools in ESL Learning: Effectiveness in Higher Education

Author

Listed:
  • Farahidatul Akmar Awaludin

    (University Technology MARA)

  • Rosida Ahmad Junid

    (University Technology MARA)

  • Azurawati Zaidi

    (University Technology MARA)

  • Nurul Farhani Che Ghani

    (University Technology MARA)

  • Rafidah Abd Karim

    (University Technology MARA)

  • Noor Aileen Ibrahim

    (University Technology MARA)

  • Nor Najihah Norafand

    (University Technology MARA)

Abstract

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education, particularly in English as a Second Language (ESL) contexts, has revolutionized how writing is taught and learned. This study investigates UiTM Diploma and Degree students' engagement and perceptions of AI-powered writing tools such as Grammarly, QuillBot, ChatGPT, and Google Translate in ESL writing classrooms. Adapted from the methodological frameworks of Phan (2023) and Utami et al. (2023), this mixed-method study combined quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (semi-structured interviews) data from 120 UiTM Perak branch, Tapah campus students. Results reveal that students view AI tools as highly accessible, engaging, and effective in improving writing performance, vocabulary range, and grammatical accuracy. However, challenges such as overdependence, limited critical evaluation, and ethical concerns were also identified. Findings suggest that AI tools enhance student engagement and writing motivation when appropriately integrated but should remain supplementary to human teaching. The study offers pedagogical implications for Malaysian ESL lecturers in balancing technological facilitation and academic integrity in the age of AI-assisted learning.

Suggested Citation

  • Farahidatul Akmar Awaludin & Rosida Ahmad Junid & Azurawati Zaidi & Nurul Farhani Che Ghani & Rafidah Abd Karim & Noor Aileen Ibrahim & Nor Najihah Norafand, 2025. "Student Engagement and Perceptions of AI-Powered Tools in ESL Learning: Effectiveness in Higher Education," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(11), pages 3318-3330, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:i:11:p:3318-3330
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