ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN TESOL: A REVIEW OF CURRENT APPLICATIONS IN LANGUAGE EDUCATION AND ASSESSMENT

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive review of the current applications and implications of artificial intelligence (AI) within TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), particularly in relation to classroom instruction and assessment practices. Drawing on recent empirical research and guided by Activity Theory, the review explores how AI technologies are transforming English language education through their integration into everyday learning tasks and assignments. The analysis highlights the growing use of AI tools such as automated writing assistants, grammar correction software, machine translation applications, and speech recognition systems in EFL/ESL settings. These tools are widely employed to support learners in producing written work, improving grammatical accuracy, expanding vocabulary, and enhancing self-regulated learning strategies. The review identifies several educational benefits, including immediate feedback on student assignments, personalized learning pathways, and greater learner engagement. However, it also draws attention to notable challenges, including AI's limited ability to foster real-time communicative competence and the ongoing need for teacher intervention to contextualize AI- generated feedback. The findings suggest that while AI can significantly enhance written and digital assignments in TESOL classrooms, it should be positioned as a supportive aid rather than a substitute for pedagogical instruction. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of aligning AI technologies with instructional goals, language proficiency standards, and culturally responsive teaching practices. For TESOL educators, the effective integration of AI requires digital literacy, critical engagement with AI outputs, and thoughtful scaffolding of assignments to ensure meaningful learning. Finally, the review calls for further empirical research into AI's impact on learner motivation, assessment design, and the development of communicative skills, especially within diverse, multilingual classroom contexts. Overall, the study presents AI as a promising yet evolving resource in TESOL, capable of enriching English language education when used with pedagogical intent and teacher guidance.