Empowering Students' Autonomy in EFL Learning: AI Innovations in Schools of the Global South

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education has transformed teaching practices, necessitating a re-evaluation of teacher competencies in the digital age. This systematic review examines the intersection of AI technologies and EFL teachers' competencies, exploring how AI tools influence pedagogical skills, technological proficiency, and professional development. Through an analysis of recent literature, the study identifies key competencies required for EFL teachers to effectively leverage AI, including adaptive teaching strategies, data literacy, and ethical considerations in AI usage. The review also highlights challenges such as resistance to technological adoption, the digital divide, and the need for continuous upskilling. Findings suggest that while AI offers significant opportunities for personalized learning and efficiency, EFL teachers must develop a balanced skill set that integrates traditional teaching expertise with emerging technological demands. The results of the research showed that 1) EFL teachers’ competencies in artificial intelligence field consist of 10 competencies, namely: 1) AI-Assisted Lesson Planning, 2) AI-Powered Language Practice & Feedback, 3) Speech Recognition & Pronunciation Tools, 4) AI for Differentiated Instruction, 5) Automated Assessment & Grading, 6) Data-Driven Student Insights, 7) Ethical & Critical Use of AI, 8) AI for Content Creation & Gamification, 9) AI-Powered Translation & Comprehension Support, and 10) AI and Virtual/Augmented Reality in EFL. The paper concludes with recommendations for teacher training programs and policy frameworks to support the evolving role of EFL educators in an AI-driven educational landscape.

The purpose of the present study is to explore cross-cultural differences among teachers of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) on the basic language constructs and the impacts on their perceived teaching ability in English-reading instruction. Chinese EFL (n = 73) and Korean EFL (n = 39) teachers were administered the Reading Teacher Knowledge Survey for testing their implicit and explicit knowledge on phonemic awareness, phonological awareness, phonics, and morphological awareness; and their self-perceived teaching ability on teaching typical readers, struggling readers, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Results showed that both Chinese EFL and Korean EFL teachers' knowledge on the phonemic awareness, phonological awareness, and phonics was implicit rather than explicit. However, the teachers' knowledge on morphological awareness showed cross-cultural difference: Chinese EFL teachers had greater explicit knowledge on morphological awareness than implicit knowledge, while their Korean EFL counterparts showed opposite pattern. Self-perceived teaching ability was also distinct cross-culturally, in that Chinese EFL teachers were only confident in teaching English vocabulary, whereas Korean EFL teachers had generally positive self-perception on teaching typical readers, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Importantly, both groups of EFL teachers' explicit knowledge on the basic language constructs explained additional variance for predicting their self-perception on teaching English reading, controlling for the effects of their years of teaching and implicit knowledge. Educational implications and future research ideas are discussed in relation to the cross-cultural differences of teacher knowledge and their perceived teaching ability.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education marks a significant transformation in pedagogical practices, particularly in higher education. In many European countries, such as Germany, Estonia, Finland, and Ukraine, this transformation is accelerating as education systems increasingly adopt AI technologies that replicate human cognitive processes like problem-solving and decision-making. They provide unprecedented opportunities for personalizing language learning based on individual student needs. This study explores current trends, pedagogical models, and empirical findings related to the implementation of AI in EFL classrooms, with particular attention to its impact on the development of language skills, learner autonomy, and affective factors such as motivation and engagement. Within the European context, these issues are especially relevant due to the widespread status of English as a foreign language and the strategic emphasis on digital innovation in national education systems. Drawing on both international and Ukrainian research, the study examines the application of widely used AI tools, such as chatbots, writing assistants, translation platforms, and intelligent tutoring systems, in language teaching. Empirical evidence, including findings from European-based studies, indicates significant improvements in students’ receptive (reading, listening) and productive (speaking, writing) language skills, lexical acquisition, and intercultural competence. Furthermore, AI enhances the affective dimension of learning by boosting motivation, promoting engagement, and alleviating foreign language anxiety through personalized, adaptive feedback and autonomous learning pathways. Despite these benefits, the integration of AI into EFL education is characterized by some challenges, including students’ over-reliance on technology, insufficient digital literacy among users, ethical concerns regarding data privacy, and a lack of comprehensive pedagogical frameworks. The study emphasizes the need for pre-service teacher training programs that effectively incorporate AI competencies. Overall, the study results indicate a positive impact of integrating AI into the teaching of English as a foreign language in European counties (including Ukraine), demonstrating how technological innovations can complement traditional pedagogical approaches to support accessible, effective, and learner-centered foreign language education in the digital era.

In recent years, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has had a significant impact on foreign language learning, particularly for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students in higher education. This paper examines how AI technologies are transforming language proficiency development in Azerbaijani and Indian universities. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study analyses a simulated dataset that includes surveys and interviews with undergraduate and postgraduate EFL learners and educators from selected Azerbaijani and Indian institutions. The findings indicate that AI-driven tools, such as language learning applications, intelligent tutoring systems, speech recognition software,and chatbots, positively influence learner autonomy, vocabulary development, and pronunciation skills. However, the research also highlights challenges such as issues with technology access, disparities in digital literacy, and resistance to new teaching methods. The study is grounded in Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory and Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK). Results suggest that AI not only improves language skills but also facilitates personalized and adaptive learning experiences, positioning it as a valuable resource in EFL education. The paper concludes with recommendations for AI-integrated strategies aimed at language curriculum developers, educators, and policymakers to enhance proficiency outcomes. This research contributes to the growing conversation about AI in language education and emphasizes the need for ethical and context-aware implementation within India's diverse educational landscape.

This research aims to explore the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching within Indonesian Islamic Senior High Schools. Employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, the study synthesizes existing research to identify effective AI applications, challenges faced by educators and students, and the broader implications for educational reform. The findings reveal that AI can significantly enhance EFL instruction through personalized learning experiences, intelligent tutoring systems, and language learning applications, which improve student engagement and language proficiency. However, challenges such as inadequate teacher training, resource limitations, and ethical concerns regarding data privacy must be addressed to ensure successful implementation. The implications of this study highlight the need for a balanced approach that combines AI integration with human interaction in teaching practices. Additionally, it underscores the importance of professional development for educators and equitable access to technology for all students. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on AI in education and provides actionable insights for policymakers and educators seeking to enhance English language teaching in Indonesia's Islamic Senior High Schools. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, EFL teaching, Indonesia, Islamic senior high schools Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi integrasi Kecerdasan Buatan (AI) dalam pengajaran Bahasa Inggris sebagai Bahasa Asing (EFL) di Sekolah Menengah Atas Islam di Indonesia. Dengan menggunakan metodologi Tinjauan Literatur Sistematis (SLR), penelitian ini mensintesis penelitian yang sudah ada untuk mengidentifikasi aplikasi AI yang efektif, tantangan yang dihadapi oleh para pendidik dan siswa, dan implikasi yang lebih luas untuk reformasi pendidikan. Temuan tersebut mengungkapkan bahwa AI dapat secara signifikan meningkatkan pengajaran EFL melalui pengalaman belajar yang dipersonalisasi, sistem bimbingan belajar yang cerdas, dan aplikasi pembelajaran bahasa, yang meningkatkan keterlibatan siswa dan kemahiran bahasa. Namun, tantangan seperti pelatihan guru yang tidak memadai, keterbatasan sumber daya, dan masalah etika terkait privasi data harus diatasi untuk memastikan implementasi yang sukses. Implikasi dari penelitian ini menyoroti perlunya pendekatan yang seimbang yang menggabungkan integrasi AI dengan interaksi manusia dalam praktik pengajaran. Selain itu, penelitian ini juga menggarisbawahi pentingnya pengembangan profesionalisme bagi para pendidik dan akses yang adil terhadap teknologi untuk semua siswa. Penelitian ini berkontribusi pada literatur yang berkembang tentang AI dalam pendidikan dan memberikan wawasan yang dapat ditindaklanjuti bagi para pembuat kebijakan dan pendidik yang ingin meningkatkan pengajaran bahasa Inggris di Sekolah Menengah Atas Islam di Indonesia. Kata kunci: Kecerdasan buatan, pengajaran bahasa Inggris, Indonesia, sekolah menengah atas Islam

PurposeThe present study aims to examine the attitudes of future Saudi female English as a Foreign Language (EFL) student-teachers toward English native-like pronunciation to investigate their misconceptions about English as a Lingua Franca (ELF).Design/methodology/approachThe researcher used a questionnaire to collect the data for the study.FindingsThe results indicate that students and teachers have positive attitudes toward native-like pronunciation. However, the results also show a realization on the participants’ part about the status of ELF. The study concludes that although they have positive attitudes toward native-like English pronunciation, students use ELF and recognize that such pronunciation is not essential for global communication. The study results show that the participants are aware of ELF, filling a vacuum in the literature about how Saudi students perceive ELF. It encourages EFL teachers, syllabus designers, developers and researchers to provide more information on this topic and stresses international communicative ability, as ELF speakers require.Research limitations/implications As the study has some limitations that could be addressed in future research, other researchers should address these deficiencies in future studies. One limitation is that the study only involved Saudi female future teachers. Further researchers can investigate male Saudi future EFL teachers. Another limitation is that the study focused on future teachers of English in Saudi Arabia in only one institution. Other Saudi EFL teachers and other Arab future teachers could be further investigated to reject or support the study’s findings. Additionally, a more detailed demographic background could be specified in further research for more comprehensive results. In addition, similar studies could be conducted with participants from different EFL-speaking countries. Another limitation of this study is that it covers the attitudes of EFL future teachers toward native-like pronunciation and indirectly investigates their views on ELF. More research is needed to determine how EFL learners and teachers perceive ELF. The actual use of English globally could become more enlightened with further study.Practical implicationsThis study’s findings have implications for instructors, syllabus designers and researchers. The results suggest that EFL instructors, syllabus designers and researchers should focus more on international communicative competence than native-like competence. While designing course materials or teaching, teachers and syllabus developers should be fully aware of the status of ELF. Designers of syllabi should include conversations among speakers from different linguistic backgrounds. Effective communication is a priority. Students should become more familiar with global communication outside the classroom and be prepared to engage in it.Social implicationsStudents should become more familiar with global communication outside the classroom and be prepared to engage in it.Originality/valueNative varieties of English have gained popularity over the years among EFL teachers and learners. However, researchers have debated the importance of EFL students achieving native-like English proficiency.

A Discursive Lens on English Language Teaching and Learning in Saudi Arabia

Through the lens of teachers of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in China, this chapter aims to examine what knowledge of technology EFL teachers at all levels possess and how they apply their technological knowledge in teaching practice. The reviewed literature indicated that most EFL teachers hold positive attitudes towards technology. However, there still exists a gap between the curriculum requirement and the reality in terms of technological pedagogy in EFL teaching context. EFL teachers' use of technology in teaching varies in terms of personal preferences, school levels and locations, and administrative support. In addition, this review revealed that several factors influence EFL teachers' integration of technology into their practice and some challenges are still on the way: 1) EFL teachers' knowledge of technology is insufficient; 2) Lack of resources for schools and teachers at less developed areas, and 3) Lack of specific support for EFL teachers' technological needs.

The aim of this study is to investigate the attitudes of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in Jordan towards using webinars as professional development tools in comparing with international EFL teachers. A quantitative study was conducted with (60) EFL teachers, (44) EFL teachers were from Jordan and (16) EFL teachers were from different countries around the world. An online questionnaire which is adapted from Emre’s thesis (2019) was distributed via WhatsApp and Telegram applications. The data has analyzed using descriptive statistics via SPSS statistics. This study was conducted in Amman- Jordan in (2020-2021). The results showed that female and males EFL teachers who have additional courses and who have attended webinars were positive towards using webinars as professional development tools and Jordanian EFL teachers revealed moderate attitudes in comparing with international EFL teachers. This study suggested to encourage Jordanian EFL teachers to attend webinars for professional development by supporting and facilitating conditions, reward teachers who attend webinars and conduct persistent research in order to have different experiences to support the results of the upcoming researches.

Purpose: This study aims to examine the impact of technology integration in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes on learners' motivation and performance. It also seeks to provide training for EFL teachers to effectively incorporate technology into their instructional practices.
 Methodology: The research utilizes experimental and descriptive-analytical methods, involving 75 participants, including EFL students and teachers from secondary schools in Al-Hasaheisa Locality, Gezira State, Sudan. Data collection involves questionnaires and pre-post-tests administered to both teachers and students. The collected data is analyzed using the SPSS program.
 Findings: The study reveals that the use of technology in EFL classes facilitates English language teaching and learning. Despite the high internet costs in Sudan, EFL students actively engage in online collaboration activities. However, it is highlighted that nearly half of the EFL teachers lack sufficient training to effectively utilize the available computers and technological devices. The study emphasizes that EFL students display motivation to learn through computer usage, both inside and outside the classroom. Additionally, technology enables EFL learners to engage in computer-based assignments, practice problem-solving and critical thinking through e-activities, and improve their overall performance. Furthermore, utilizing technology allows teachers to provide a broader range of materials and information.
 Unique Contributions to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in the EFL teaching and learning process. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive training programs to enhance EFL teachers' proficiency in effectively employing technology in their instructional practices.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and Chat GPT technology in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction has ushered in transformative changes in language learning and assessment. This essay explores the multifaceted impact of AI and Chat GPT on EFL education, emphasizing their role in personalized language learning, real-time language practice, and examination techniques. AI facilitates personalized language learning by tailoring lessons to individual students' needs, promoting deeper language understanding. Real-time language practice is enhanced through dynamic interactions with AI-powered chatbots, which provide immediate feedback, boosting proficiency and confidence. In examination techniques, AI automates grading and feedback, improving efficiency and consistency, while also enhancing test security. The integration of AI and Chat GPT raises ethical considerations regarding privacy, equity, and responsible AI usage. Successful case studies, including Duolingo's language learning platform, Chat GPT in EFL classrooms, and ExamSoft's examination software, highlight the practical benefits of AI integration. The future of EFL education lies in a collaborative relationship between human teachers and AI, addressing challenges and limitations while prioritizing ethical considerations, equitable access, and meaningful human interaction. The potential for a more effective and engaging EFL learning experience is achievable with a commitment to these principles.

Artificial intelligence integration is becoming increasingly popular in English language learning. This paper explores the effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on English language learning, with a specific focus on the attitudes Libyan EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers at the Faculty of Education, Elmergib University. For this purpose, 20 Libyan EFL teachers were purposefully selected. The required data were collected using a mixed-methods, gathering both quantitative and qualitative data from a sample of 20 EFL teachers who incorporate AI tools in their teaching practices. A survey instrument including multiple-choice, open-ended, and Likert-scale items was used to gather the quantitative data. Semi-structured interviews were also used to collect qualitative data from the same sample of twenty EFL teachers. The results obtained from the data analysis and discussion indicated that, while EFL teachers have a positive attitude towards AI tools, constant support and comprehensive training will enable them to make the best use of AI tools and to overcome associated challenges with their integration.

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in EFL teachers' passion for self-directed professional development.

Institutionalising English as a foreign language teachers for global sustainability: Perceptions of education for sustainable development in Turkey

The recent decades have seen enthusiastic calls for reconceptualizing English as a foreign language (EFL) education, taking into account the current socio-lingual status of English and how it is used genuinely for communication interculturally and internationally. However, a wide gap still exists between promulgation such as intelligibility over nativelikeness in pronunciation instruction and realities in the EFL classroom. The study investigated pre- and in-service teachers’ cognition about accents and the incorporation of different accents in their classrooms. One hundred and sixty-six EFL teachers (89 pre-service and 77 in-service) from Hong Kong and Guangdong (a province in China) completed a questionnaire. Contrary to expectations, the teachers’ overall attitude was neutral rather than positive towards General American (GA) / Received Pronunciation (RP)1 associated with EFL teachers’ accents and EFL education. Only two thirds of the teachers were certain about which accents to use and to teach in listening and pronunciation lessons (i.e. as many as one third were uncertain). Also, the participants were neutral about incorporating non-GA/RP accents into EFL lessons, with around one third objecting to doing so. Although no differences were found between pre- and in-service teachers’ cognition, additional analysis revealed that teachers’ individual background variables, namely teaching experience, self-rated language proficiency, and knowledge of sound systems (IPA for English; pinyin for Mandarin), have significant correlations with their cognition.