Research Article

Exploring the Applications of Large Language Models in ESL Learning

Yingyue ZhangNankai University*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been utilized in different fields to accelerate the acquisition of languages because of the fast growth and the growing complexity of this technology. One of the most accessible and applicable AI technologies currently is large language models (LLMs). The essay discusses the application of LLMs in the English as a second language (ESL) study with a focus on three types, including writing assistance, speaking and pronunciation support, and vocabulary and grammar enhancement. The researcher intends to investigate the primary applications of LLM in facilitating learning in these areas, assess the effectiveness of these practices, as well as identify existing issues and associated solutions through the analysis of the use of the AI in these three areas. It is hoped that the results will provide ESL students with practical recommendations about the ways to reduce risks and integrate the use of LLMs into the process of English language acquisition. Moreover, they act as a warning message of the issues and dangers of the misuse of LLMs in the ESL learning process and invoke a more serious and responsible method of using LLMs.

Keywords: ESL; LLM; English Writing; English Speaking; English Vocabulary and Grammar
Published: February 2, 2026
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2026.BJ31556
Volume: CHR Vol.101
pp. 109-115
Download PDF

References

  1. Lo, C. K., Yu, P. L. H., Xu, S., Ng, D. T. K., & Jong, M. S. (2024). Exploring the application of ChatGPT in ESL/EFL education and related research issues: A systematic review of empirical studies. Smart Learning Environments, 11(1), 50. https: //doi.org/10.1186/s40561-024-00342-5
  2. Large language model (LLM). - EBSCO. (n.d.).
  3. Hao, C., & Zhang, F. (2026). Understanding self-regulated grammar learning with LLM chatbot support: An epistemic network analysis of grammar learning strategy patterns. System, 136, 103879. https: //doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2025.103879
  4. Aydin, O., Karaarslan, E., Erenay, F. S., & Džakula, N. B. (2025). Generative AI in Academic Writing: A Comparison of DeepSeek, Qwen, ChatGPT, Gemini, Llama, Mistral, and Gemma. https: //doi.org/10.36227/techrxiv.174137796.60885820/v1
  5. Gayed, J. M., Carlon, M. K. J., Oriola, A. M., & Cross, J. S. (2022). Exploring an AI-based writing Assistant’s impact on English language learners. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 3, 100055. https: //doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2022.100055
  6. Alharbi, W. (2023). AI in the Foreign Language Classroom: A Pedagogical Overview of Automated Writing Assistance Tools. Education Research International, 2023, 1–15. https: //doi.org/10.1155/2023/4253331
  7. Xiao, Y., & Zhi, Y. (2023). An Exploratory Study of EFL Learners’ Use of ChatGPT for Language Learning Tasks: Experience and Perceptions. Languages, 8(3), 212. https: //doi.org/10.3390/languages8030212
  8. Wan, Q., Hu, S., Zhang, Y., Wang, P., Wen, B., & Lu, Z. (2024). 'It Felt Like Having a Second Mind’: Investigating Human-AI Co-creativity in Prewriting with Large Language Models. Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction, 8(CSCW1), 1–26. https: //doi.org/10.1145/3637361
  9. Wu, Y. (2024). Study on the Impact of Utilizing ChatGPT and Other AI Tools for Feedback in EAP Writing Classrooms on the Discursive Writing Performance of English Major Students. Transactions on Social Science, Education and Humanities Research, 4, 143–150. https: //doi.org/10.62051/4se95x52
  10. Bai, B., & Wang, J. (2021). Hong Kong secondary students’ self-regulated learning strategy use and English writing: Influences of motivational beliefs. System, 96, 102404. https: //doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2020.102404
  11. Polakova, P., & Ivenz, P. (2024). The impact of ChatGPT feedback on the development of EFL students’ writing skills. Cogent Education, 11(1), 2410101. https: //doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2024.2410101
  12. Mahapatra, S. (2024). Impact of ChatGPT on ESL students’ academic writing skills: A mixed methods intervention study. Smart Learning Environments, 11(1), 9. https: //doi.org/10.1186/s40561-024-00295-9
  13. Do, T. T. (2025). AI-assisted Academic Writing in a Blended EFL Setting: Practices and Perceived Effectiveness at FPT University, Hanoi. 2025 International Conference on Distance Education and Learning (ICDEL), 114–118. https: //doi.org/10.1109/ICDEL65868.2025.11193452
  14. Azaria, A., Azoulay, R., & Reches, S. (2024). ChatGPT is a Remarkable Tool—For Experts. Data Intelligence, 6(1), 240–296. https: //doi.org/10.1162/dint_a_00235
  15. Anghel, A.-S., Ion, D.-C., Petroiu, L.-M., Selea, T.-O., Tudose, C., & Boiangiu, C.-A. (2024). ETHICS OF USING AI FOR ACADEMIC RESEARCH AND PLAGIARISM. Journal of Information Systems, 18.
  16. Krashen, S. D. (1984). Principles and practice in second language acquisition (Reprinted). Pergamon Press.
  17. Kang, H. (n.d.). Effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Native Speaker Interlocutors on ESL Learners’ Speaking Ability and Affective Aspects.
  18. Hou, X. (2025). Self-Directed Use of Voice-Enabled AI Chatbots for Improving English Speaking: A Case Study with Doubao. 2025 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Education (ICAIE), 141–146. https: //doi.org/10.1109/ICAIE64856.2025.11158429
  19. Harsh, A., Prince, B., Siddharth, S., Muthirayan, D. R. P., Bhalla, K. S., Gupta, E. S., & Sahu, S. (2025). Enhancing Public Speaking Skills in Engineering Students Through AI (No. arXiv: 2511.04995). arXiv. https: //doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2511.04995
  20. Xia, C. (2025). Research on College English Speaking Evaluation and Intelligent Tutoring System Based on Artificial Intelligence. 2025 International Conference on Computers, Information Processing and Advanced Education (CIPAE), 416–420. https: //doi.org/10.1109/CIPAE66821.2025.00077
  21. L’Enfant, J. (2024). AI as a reflective coach in graduate ESL practicum: Activity theory insights into student-teacher development. European Journal of Open, Distance and E-Learning, 26(S1), 1–9. https: //doi.org/10.2478/eurodl-2024-0003
  22. Krashen, S. D. (1985). Second language acquisition and second language learning (Reprinted). Pergamon Pr.
  23. Zhan, Y., Guo, J., & Yuan, F. (2025). A Comparative Study of the Efficacy of LLMs in Generating Learning Resources for Non-English Major Postgraduates. 2025 7th International Conference on Computer Science and Technologies in Education (CSTE), 838–842. https: //doi.org/10.1109/CSTE64638.2025.11091983
  24. Weber, J. M., & Valentini, M. (n.d.). Evaluating LLMs as Tools to Support Early Vocabulary Learning.
  25. Mirosław, P., Derakhshan, A., Mehdizadeh, M., & Kruk, M. (2023). Yet another look at strategies for learning grammar: Validating the Grammar Learning Strategy Inventory in the Iranian EFL context. System, 118, 103139. https: //doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2023.103139
  26. Kim, N., & Kim, H.-S. (2024). An Empirical Study on the Utilization of the Large Language Model, in English Education. International JOURNAL OF CONTENTS, 20(3), 48–61. https: //doi.org/10.5392/IJoC.2024.20.3.048