THE ROLE OF AI-ASSISTED LEARNING IN ENHANCING CRITICAL THINKING AND REFLECTIVE TEACHING PRACTICES IN FUTURE ENGLISH TEACHERS

Аннотация

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming teacher education by providing innovative tools that support critical thinking and reflective teaching. This article examines the role of AI-assisted learning in developing these essential skills among future English teachers. AI-driven platforms such as automated feedback systems, adaptive learning environments, and intelligent tutoring systems offer pre- service teachers opportunities for critical analysis, problem-solving, and self- reflection. The study explores how AI enhances teacher training programs by facilitating deep engagement with pedagogical content and encouraging metacognitive awareness. Additionally, the article discusses challenges such as ethical concerns, technological limitations, and the need for pedagogical alignment in AI integration. Findings suggest that AI-assisted learning can be a valuable supplement to traditional teacher education methods, fostering independent thinking and continuous professional growth. The study highlights the implications for curriculum design and the future of AI-enhanced teacher training programs. Keywords: AI-assisted learning, critical thinking, reflective teaching, English teacher education, teacher training, pedagogical innovation. Introduction. In the digital age, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in education, reshaping traditional pedagogical approaches and enhancing learning experiences. One of the key areas where AI technology is making a significant impact is in teacher education, particularly in developing critical thinking and reflective teaching skills among future English teachers. Critical thinking is a fundamental skill for educators, enabling them to analyze information, evaluate diverse perspectives, and make informed pedagogical decisions. Reflective teaching, on the other hand, fosters continuous professional growth by encouraging teachers to assess and refine their instructional strategies. AI-assisted learning offers innovative opportunities to enhance these skills through intelligent tutoring systems, automated feedback mechanisms, and adaptive learning platforms1. These technologies provide pre-service teachers with real-time insights, promote interactive problem-solving, and 1 Luckin R. (2018). Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Learning. London: UCL Press. 130 Acumen: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research Acumen: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research ISSN: 3060-4745 IF(Impact Factor)10.41 / 2024 Volume 2, Issue 2 encourage self-reflection. By integrating AI-driven tools into teacher training programs, educators can create more dynamic, student-centered learning environments that foster critical engagement and adaptability. Despite its potential, AI-assisted learning also presents challenges, including ethical considerations, technological limitations, and the need for pedagogical alignment. Understanding the implications of AI in teacher education requires a comprehensive examination of its effectiveness, challenges, and best practices. This article explores how AI technology contributes to the development of critical thinking and reflective teaching in future English teachers, highlighting its benefits, limitations, and impact on teacher preparation programs. Critical thinking is an essential competency for future English teachers, enabling them to analyze, evaluate, and apply information effectively in the classroom. AI-assisted learning tools offer several ways to enhance critical thinking by fostering analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. One of the key AI-driven technologies in teacher education is intelligent tutoring systems (ITS). These systems provide personalized learning experiences by analyzing a student's responses and offering tailored feedback. For example, AI-based platforms like Grammarly and Turnitin help future teachers refine their academic writing, prompting them to think critically about language use, argumentation, and coherence2. Similarly, AI-driven discussion forums, such as those integrated into learning management systems, encourage pre-service teachers to engage in debates, analyze different viewpoints, and construct well-reasoned arguments. Another significant AI tool is automated feedback systems, which provide instant evaluation on assignments and classroom activities. Unlike traditional feedback, which may take days or weeks, AI-generated feedback allows learners to reflect on their errors in real-time, fostering a habit of continuous improvement and self-directed learning. Chatbots and AI- powered teaching assistants further facilitate critical thinking by posing challenging questions, providing Socratic dialogue, and offering interactive case studies for future teachers to analyze. Furthermore, adaptive learning platforms such as Coursera, Duolingo, and Khan Academy use AI algorithms to customize learning paths based on an individual’s progress3. By adapting to