This exploratory study investigates the use of ChatGPT to enhance Communicative Competence for Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) learners. Since its introduction in late 2022, ChatGPT has garnered attention from researchers and educators, prompting investigations into its potential within language teaching and learning contexts1. Existing research has demonstrated ChatGPT’s advantages, which include its capacity to generate customized teaching materials, inspire students to learn, and serve as a comprehensive AI assistant in the field of education. On the other hand, infrequent answer mistakes have decreased students’ motivation to utilize AI as a language learning tool. In this study, CFL students with low language proficiency levels engage in student-ChatGPT interaction activities related to authentic subject content. Participants include learners enrolled in intermediate Mandarin subjects at an Australian university during the autumn and/or spring sessions of 2024, along with their teachers. Data collection involves anonymous questionnaires, individual student interviews, examination of student-ChatGPT communication records, and teachers’ reflection journals. This study intends to contribute to pedagogical advancements by offering valuable insights into the effective integration of AI into language instruction, with a specific focus on developing students’ Communicative Competence.

Authors:
Leimin Shi, University of Wollongong, Australia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Leimin Shi is an academic from the University of Wollongong, Australia, focusing her research on the methodology of L2 instruction from the perspectives of teacher cognition, technology, SFL and intercultural communication.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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