How AI-Based WordTune Affects English as a Foreign Language Learners’ E-Narrative Writing Performance and Their Feedback Literacy

How AI-Based WordTune Affects English as a Foreign Language Learners’ E-Narrative Writing Performance and Their Feedback Literacy

This study investigated the impact of using artificial intelligence-based (AI) writing assistant applications on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners e-writing performance and their writing feedback literacy. To do so, 60 Iranian EFL learners were non-randomly selected and divided into an experimental group (n= 30) whose narrative writing performance was given automated corrective feedback with AI-powered Wordtune, and a control group (n= 30) who received regular teacher-directed corrections on their written assignments. The experiment spanned approximately 10 weeks, during which both groups attended 90-minute online sessions. In every session, both groups completed a narrative of 80 to 100 words based on a given topic. The results of the post-intervention interviews from 10 randomly selected participants from each group demonstrated the positive academic and affective impacts of the digital writing assistant on EFL learners e-writing performance. Furthermore, it was found that the participants in the experimental group showed improved understanding and utilization of feedback they received through Wordtune. The findings of the study have several implications for L2 teachers and learners to make room for using AI-based applications to improve writing performance in a more inspiring and motivating environment.