Cognitive and sociocultural dynamics of self-regulated use of machine translation and generative AI tools in academic EFL writing

Abstract

With emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technology, language education has become an increasingly dynamic field where traditional teaching methods intersect with rapidly evolving digital tools, transforming the way English as a Foreign Language (EFL) is taught and learned. This study examines the intersection of cognitive processes and sociocultural contexts in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms, focusing on 79 learners enrolled in a compulsory EFL course at a Japanese university and their self-regulated use of AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Translate for writing tasks. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study investigates learners' evolving perceptions and highlights the interplay between their cognitive engagement and sociocultural interactions within the classroom setting. Quantitative data from pre- and post-surveys reveal learners’ attitudes towards AI-assisted writing, while qualitative insights are drawn from their self-reported experiences. Findings indicate that while the students perceived that their writing outcomes have improved by using AI tools for editing, the role of instructors for providing proper guidance and training on the technology, as well as the collocative learning with peers cannot be replaced by the AI tools.