A Study on the Utilization of OpenAI ChatGPT as a Second Language Learning Tool

Abstract

In November 2022, ChatGPT was introduced and caused a sensation, gathering 100 million users only within two months. ChatGPT’s capability of generating high-quality sentences demonstrated potential to be applied in a wide range of fields. In this paper, we explore the utilization of ChatGPT as a second language learning tool and scrutinize its suitability. Specifically, we analyzed technical aspects of ChatGPT including its principles, history, and features. We then assessed its ability from two different perspectives: designing course contents and teaching these contents based on Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) method. Firstly, we built up a Korean ESL learner persona who is an intermediate level and directed ChatGPT to construct a course for business English writing. Second, we asked ChatGPT to teach business English writing by TBLT method. Although there were areas for improvement, the results were promising, indicating that ChatGPT was able to execute given prompts to act as a language learning tool. By highlighting opportunities and concerns of ChatGPT in the language learning context, this paper implied its potential to create enhanced learning experience by facilitating a supportive learning environment. Further research is expected to investigate its effectiveness in diverse contexts and purposes.