Artificial Intelligence for Language Learning and Assessment: Uses, Challenges, and Opportunities in Secondary Schools

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the uses, challenges, and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence in language learning and assessment within secondary schools. Language learning at this level is crucial for enhancing communication skills, academic success, and future career prospects. Despite efforts by various schools to boost academic performance and teacher-student communication, issues like insufficient teaching resources, large class sizes, lack of personalized feedback, and subjective assessment methods persist. The rise of AI-powered educational tools introduces new possibilities to support language instruction and evaluation. Consequently, this research was conducted to improve learning experiences and assessment precision in secondary education. It employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research designs, to gain a comprehensive understanding of AI's application and perceptions in this context. Data collection involved structured questionnaires given to teachers and students to assess AI usage frequency, perceived effectiveness, assessment accuracy, and usability. Additionally, interviews explored participants' experiences, implementation challenges, ethical issues, infrastructure constraints, and opportunities related to AI in language learning and evaluation. Results indicate that AI significantly enhances language learning through personalized pathways, real-time feedback, automated grading, and interactive environments. AI tools support vocabulary development, grammar correction, pronunciation practice, and writing skills. Moreover, AI-based assessment systems increase marking efficiency and reduce teachers’ workload. However, challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure, limited teacher training, data privacy concerns, high implementation costs, and students' overdependence on AI responses are noted. Despite these obstacles, findings suggest that AI holds strong potential to revolutionize language education through adaptive learning and data-driven assessments. The study concludes that AI presents valuable opportunities to improve language learning and assessment in secondary schools. Although issues like infrastructure gaps, ethical considerations, and the need for teacher training remain, the advantages of AI in personalization, efficiency, and evaluation accuracy outweigh these challenges. To realize AI’s full potential, strategic implementation, comprehensive training, and supportive policies are essential for transforming secondary school language education.