Artificial Intelligence Integration in EFL Education: A Systematic Review

Strategic Insights -

A new study by researchers from University Teknologi Malaysia has shed light on the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools and large language models (LLMs) on language learners' critical thinking (CT) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education. The systematic review analyzed 15 studies from 2022 to 2025, examining the dual nature of AI tools and LLMs in language learning. The findings revealed that AI tools and LLMs have both the potential to nurture and hinder CT in EFL education, with 66.67% of studies reporting a positive role and 33.33% reporting a negative role. The study also identified limitations and challenges in the field, including research scope, user dependency, generative AI reliability, and pedagogical integration.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study systematically analyzed the impact of generative AI tools and LLMs on language learners' CT in EFL education using the PRISMA framework.
  • The review of 15 selected studies examined the dual nature, research methods, main focuses, theory and models, limitations and challenges, and future directions of generative AI tools and LLMs in language learning.
  • Generative AI tools and LLMs possess both the potential to nurture and the risk of hindering CT in EFL education.
  • 66.67% of studies reported generative AI tools and LLMs' positive role in CT, while 33.33% of studies reported its negative role in CT.
  • The study identified 4 limitations in the field, including research scope, user dependency, generative AI reliability, and pedagogical integration.
  • The study recommended future research focus on assessing long-term effects, broadening research scope, promoting responsible AI use, and refining pedagogical strategies.

Statistics:

  • 66.67% of studies reported generative AI tools and LLMs' positive role in CT.
  • 33.33% of studies reported generative AI tools and LLMs' negative role in CT.
  • The review analyzed 15 selected studies from 2022 to 2025.
  • 4 limitations in the field were identified, including research scope, user dependency, generative AI reliability, and pedagogical integration.

Sources:

  • "How do generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools and large language models (LLMs) influence language learners' critical thinking in EFL education? A systematic review." Smart Learning Environments, 2025, 12(1):1-35.
  • University Teknologi Malaysia
  • Jing Liu, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology (FEST), University Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
  • Ahmad Johari Bin Sihes, Ye Lu