THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MODERN ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Аннотация

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force in the field of education, particularly in language learning. With the emergence of intelligent tools such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, Duolingo Max, and Google Translate, learners are now able to access grammar correction, vocabulary expansion, pronunciation feedback, and real-time conversation practice with minimal or no human supervision. These developments raise critical questions about the evolving role of language teachers and whether AI is gradually replacing the traditional classroom educator. This paper aims to examine the impact of AI- assisted learning technologies on English language acquisition, with a specific focus on university-level students in Uzbekistan. The study explores how AI tools are being used by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, the perceived advantages and drawbacks of AI integration, and the pedagogical implications of relying heavily on technology for language instruction. Moreover, this paper analyzes the human aspects of language education that AI currently fails to replicate — such as emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, spontaneous feedback, and the ability to inspire and motivate learners. Based on qualitative and quantitative data, the research concludes that while AI offers significant support in automating and enhancing parts of the learning process, it should be viewed as a supplement, not a substitute, for the human language teacher. A blended learning model that combines human expertise with technological efficiency is proposed as the most effective and balanced approach to modern language education. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Language Learning, English as a Foreign Language (EFL), AI Tools in Education, Teacher-Technology Relationship, Blended Learning, EdTech in Uzbekistan, Personalized Language Instruction