Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Language Instruction: English Teachers’ Experiences with ChatGPT

This study explores the experiences of English teachers in using ChatGPT in language instruction, specifically focusing on its perceived effectiveness in classroom teaching. Using a qualitative descriptive design, the study involved ten English teachers who had firsthand experience integrating ChatGPT into their instructional practices. Data were gathered through interviews and analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that teachers generally perceived ChatGPT as an effective instructional aid. They highlighted its usefulness in generating lesson ideas and outlines, exploring different techniques in teaching English, saving time in lesson preparation, producing instant assessments and activities, clarifying and explaining content, and supporting the development of grammar, writing, and reading skills. Teachers also noted that ChatGPT broadens their teaching strategies by expanding their understanding of language concepts and offering new ways to deliver lessons. A second major theme showed that ChatGPT makes teaching more efficient. Participants emphasized faster lesson planning, less time spent creating assessments or activities, and the ease of producing instructional materials through the tool. Despite these benefits, teachers identified challenges such as the risk of overreliance and occasional inaccuracies in generated content. Based on these insights, the study recommends school policies that promote responsible AI use through training and clear guidelines.