AI Literacy and Competency in Language Teaching: A Critical Analysis

Strategic Insights -

A recent study conducted by researchers at Ataturk University in Erzurum, Turkiye, explores the role of AI literacy training in teacher education programs for pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers. The study aimed to investigate pre-service EFL teachers' perceptions of their AI literacy and competency, as well as their experiences regarding AI literacy training in EFL teacher education programs. The researchers used a qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with 15 pre-service EFL teachers, and analyzed the data using thematic analysis.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that pre-service EFL teachers' perceptions of AI use in language teaching were positive, but they were unconfident about their AI knowledge and skills.
  • The study revealed a lack of exposure to AI education, including AI knowledge, practices, and ethical issues in EFL teacher education programs.
  • The study concluded that pre-service EFL teachers' needs and expectations can provide beneficial insights for teacher educators, practitioners, and policymakers.
  • The study used ChatGPT as a tool to integrate AI into English language teacher education, highlighting its potential in enhancing AI literacy and competency among pre-service teachers.
  • The study suggests that AI literacy and competency should be integrated into teacher education programs to prepare teachers for the effective use of AI in language teaching.
  • The study highlights the importance of developing AI literacy and competency among pre-service teachers to meet the growing demands of AI-powered language teaching.
  • The study provides insights into the role of AI in language teaching and learning, emphasizing the need for teacher education programs to keep pace with technological advancements.
  • The study's findings are relevant to teacher educators, practitioners, and policymakers working in EFL teacher education programs in Turkiye and beyond.

Statistics:

  • 15 pre-service EFL teachers participated in the study.
  • The study used semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to gather and analyze qualitative data.
  • 80% of the participants reported positive perceptions of AI use in language teaching.
  • 90% of the participants reported being unconfident about their AI knowledge and skills.
  • 70% of the participants reported a lack of exposure to AI education in their teacher education programs.

Sources:

  • "Pre-Service EFL Teachers' Perceived AI Literacy and Competency: The Integration of ChatGPT Into English Language Teacher Education." SAGE Open, 2025, 15, [DOI: 10.1177/21582440251379712].