Exploring the Role of Generative AI in Second Language Education: Insights for Instruction, Learning, and Assessment Introduction to the Forum

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI), broadly speaking, refers to the efforts to program computers in order to mimic human understandings and problem-solving abilities (Voss, 2024). Recent developments in Generative AI utilize large volumes of available training data that allow users to prompt AI-powered tools to automatically produce specific content (e.g., text or images) (Vajjala, 2024). As an innovative technology, Generative AI is reshaping many fields, including second language education (Ji et al., 2023; Zou et al., 2023). At the same time, it has sparked discussions about its seemingly obvious advantages and potential pitfalls (Voss et al., 2023). Many students, educators, and researchers have embraced Generative AI in their everyday practices. There are numerous Generative AI-powered language learning chatbots, tutors, programs, and tools freely available and widely used in language learning contexts around the world.