AI as a personal tutor: transforming English language learning in the student environment

Abstract

The landscape of language learning is continuously evolving, with technological advancements playing a pivotal role in shaping new pedagogical approaches. Among these innovations, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into educational practices has garnered significant attention, particularly within pre-higher education. The global AI in education market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 40% from 2021 to 2027, reaching a market size of US$10 billion. Notably, a growing trend among college students is the adoption of AI-powered tools and platforms as a supplementary or even primary means of learning English, moving beyond traditional methods such as human tutors and online learning platforms. This shift reflects the increasing accessibility and sophistication of AI technologies, which offer personalized and adaptive learning experiences. Understanding the prevalence and impact of this phenomenon is crucial for educators, curriculum developers, and technology providers alike. This paper aims to explore the transformation of English language learning within the student environment through the lens of AI adoption, investigating its potential benefits and challenges.