Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI
IntroductionAlthough generative artificial intelligence (AI) is ubiquitous, there is little research on how it supports self-efficacy (learners’ belief that they can perform at a particular level on a specific task). The purpose of these studies was to investigate self-efficacy development in a gene...
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Language: | English |
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Frontiers Media S.A.
2025-02-01
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Series: | Frontiers in Education |
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Online Access: | https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2025.1499497/full |
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author | Audrey K. Kittredge Elise W. M. Hopman Ben Reuveni Danielle Dionne Cassie Freeman Xiangying Jiang |
author_facet | Audrey K. Kittredge Elise W. M. Hopman Ben Reuveni Danielle Dionne Cassie Freeman Xiangying Jiang |
author_sort | Audrey K. Kittredge |
collection | DOAJ |
description | IntroductionAlthough generative artificial intelligence (AI) is ubiquitous, there is little research on how it supports self-efficacy (learners’ belief that they can perform at a particular level on a specific task). The purpose of these studies was to investigate self-efficacy development in a generative AI-based language learning experience.MethodsIn two studies, learners (N = 385) of French/Spanish used AI-based features offering conversation practice and on-demand explanations in a mobile app (Duolingo) for 1 month. Before and after using the features, learners reported their self-efficacy and other perceptions.ResultsIn Study 1, learners who had already used the features felt significantly more prepared to use French/Spanish in real-life situations after 1 month, as did learners in Study 2 who used the features for the first time. Learners in Study 2 also felt significantly more prepared to share their opinions and navigate a city, and reported significantly higher self-efficacy for speaking and understanding grammar and mistakes. Across studies, the majority of learners agreed that the AI-based features effectively supported learning, and reported using their learning outside the app.DiscussionThese results provide the first evidence of enhanced language learning self-efficacy after use of generative AI, building on findings from classroom interventions. |
format | Article |
id | doaj-art-4bf8dc93645346e79315084da6294b0c |
institution | Kabale University |
issn | 2504-284X |
language | English |
publishDate | 2025-02-01 |
publisher | Frontiers Media S.A. |
record_format | Article |
series | Frontiers in Education |
spelling | doaj-art-4bf8dc93645346e79315084da6294b0c2025-02-06T11:30:25ZengFrontiers Media S.A.Frontiers in Education2504-284X2025-02-011010.3389/feduc.2025.14994971499497Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AIAudrey K. KittredgeElise W. M. HopmanBen ReuveniDanielle DionneCassie FreemanXiangying JiangIntroductionAlthough generative artificial intelligence (AI) is ubiquitous, there is little research on how it supports self-efficacy (learners’ belief that they can perform at a particular level on a specific task). The purpose of these studies was to investigate self-efficacy development in a generative AI-based language learning experience.MethodsIn two studies, learners (N = 385) of French/Spanish used AI-based features offering conversation practice and on-demand explanations in a mobile app (Duolingo) for 1 month. Before and after using the features, learners reported their self-efficacy and other perceptions.ResultsIn Study 1, learners who had already used the features felt significantly more prepared to use French/Spanish in real-life situations after 1 month, as did learners in Study 2 who used the features for the first time. Learners in Study 2 also felt significantly more prepared to share their opinions and navigate a city, and reported significantly higher self-efficacy for speaking and understanding grammar and mistakes. Across studies, the majority of learners agreed that the AI-based features effectively supported learning, and reported using their learning outside the app.DiscussionThese results provide the first evidence of enhanced language learning self-efficacy after use of generative AI, building on findings from classroom interventions.https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2025.1499497/fulllanguage learningMobile-assisted language learning (MALL)language self-efficacygenerative AIlearning transfer |
spellingShingle | Audrey K. Kittredge Elise W. M. Hopman Ben Reuveni Danielle Dionne Cassie Freeman Xiangying Jiang Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI Frontiers in Education language learning Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) language self-efficacy generative AI learning transfer |
title | Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI |
title_full | Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI |
title_fullStr | Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI |
title_full_unstemmed | Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI |
title_short | Mobile language app learners’ self-efficacy increases after using generative AI |
title_sort | mobile language app learners self efficacy increases after using generative ai |
topic | language learning Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) language self-efficacy generative AI learning transfer |
url | https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2025.1499497/full |
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