The Role of Self-Access Language Learning Services in the Era of AI Chatbots
TL;DR
It is suggested that learners view SALL services and AI chatbots as complementary rather than competing resources for English learning, as well as their future roles.
Abstract
Recent research has examined the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in self-access language learning (SALL) and self-directed learning. However, many studies have focused on the benefits of AI for independent learning while giving limited attention to SALL services. This study investigated learners’ perceptions of the usefulness of SALL services and AI chatbots for learning English, as well as their future roles. A survey was administered to 172 students at a national university in Japan. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired-samples t-tests, while qualitative responses were analyzed using content analysis. Results indicated that learners viewed both SALL services and AI chatbots as valuable for different purposes. Compared with AI chatbots, SALL services were rated significantly higher for speaking development, motivation, personalized guidance, and overall contribution to English learning, whereas AI chatbots were valued for convenience and accessibility. Participants believed that SALL services would remain important despite advances in AI and supported the combined use of both resources. Open-ended responses highlighted speaking practice, human interaction, motivation, and personal support as key contributions of SALL services. The findings suggest that learners view SALL services and AI chatbots as complementary rather than competing resources for English learning.
