Integrating AI into language teaching: A teachers’ perspective

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into language education is reshaping language teaching and learning. This study investigates how language teachers at a Finnish higher education institution use AI in their work. An online questionnaire was distributed to language teachers (n=27, response rate 82%), and the data was analysed using content analysis method. The results indicate that AI is most frequently used for course planning and, within courses, for enhancing writing, vocabulary, and reading skills. Speaking skills practising received the least AI integration mentions. Teachers primarily use tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot to generate texts, exercises, and materials. The findings suggest that teachers view AI as a valuable assistant, particularly for learners at B1-B2 proficiency levels, freeing up teachers’ time for human-centric tasks such as communication and one-on-one interaction with students. Future development is anticipated to enhance AI's role in providing personalised feedback for students and an ability to provide tools for improving oral language skills. Teachers also assume AI will overall further support teachers in their teaching practices and on the other hand promote student autonomy and enhance personalised learning.