Effectiveness of PBL Using ChatGPT in Language Learning to ESL Students: An Investigational Study

The present study investigates how effectively PBL (Project-Based Learning) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) are integrated to enhance the language learning of ESL (English as a Second Language) students. There is no doubt about the effectiveness of AI integration in language learning. However, a blended or mixed method is expected to overcome shortcomings like emotional intelligence and individual differences in the learning process. The integration of PBL and ChatGPT enables a significant role in ELT (English Language Teaching); therefore, the study analyzes the effectiveness of L2 learning. The aim of the study is to investigate whether the combination of PBL and ChatGPT bridges the gap between traditional instruction and AI integration. The study employed a survey method using a structured questionnaire developed for the selected n=100 students through purposive sampling who had already been exposed to PBL-based language instruction in ChatGPT in the language lab. The questionnaire was developed to highlight the learners' perceptions of technological interaction and digital engagement using a Likert-scale survey in the PBL and ChatGPT contexts. The study also conducted semi-structured interviews with the participants to record the learners' perceptions apart from survey questions. The study then analyzed the data using the data tool Jamovi. The findings revealed that the proper integration of PBL and ChatGPT in language learning ensures a high frequency level of learning climate and the students are exposed to using the AI effectively and elaborately based on structure through PBL. Thus, the study concluded that it represents innovative instructional design that combines with learner-cantered methodologies.