Applying AI Tools to Enhance Argumentation Skills in Debate Activities for EFL Students

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54855/ijaile.25236

Keywords:

AI, debate, argumentation, speaking, EFL

Abstract

This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) tools on the development of argumentation skills through debates among third-year English majors at a public university in Vietnam. The study combines quantitative and qualitative methods, utilizing a questionnaire with 150 students, semi-structured interviews with 3 teachers, and reports on the AI tool usage of 63 students. The quantitative data from the questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS 26, while the qualitative data from the interviews and reports were thematically analyzed. The findings indicate that the perceived positive impacts of AI tool integration include enhanced idea and evidence generation, argument structuring, interaction, feedback, and overall performance in debates. However, participants report several challenges related to the AI's interpretation of students' ideas, the provision of high-quality and relevant responses, and students' independent and critical thinking. Finally, the study provides suggestions to enhance the effectiveness of integrating AI tools in developing argumentation skills for EFL students.

Author Biographies

  • Bui Thi Thu Giang, Hanoi University of Industry, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Giang Thi Thu Bui (Vietnam) has been an English lecturer at Hanoi University of Industry for 16 years. She holds a BA and an MA in English Language Teaching Methodology from the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University. Currently, she is Head of the Bachelor Program in English Linguistics, overseeing curriculum development, course design, and lectures on English language skills. Her areas of expertise and professional interests include curriculum design, teaching methodology, and testing and assessment.

  • Anh Ngoc Van Ngo, Hanoi University of Industry, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Anh Ngoc Van Ngo (Vietnam) is a third-year student majoring in English Linguistics at Hanoi University of Industry. She has actively taken part in student scientific research activities at her university. She has done a research project on self-regulated learning and is currently working on another research project on AI application in English language learning. Her research interests include English language learning and the integration of AI into language education.

  • Hiep Danh Mai, Hanoi University of Industry, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Hiep Danh Mai (Vietnam) is a senior specializing in English Linguistics at Hanoi University of Industry. He serves as an online English teacher for the VUIHOC system, a digital English learning platform. He is currently engaged in a research project on AI application in English language learning. His academic interests encompass English language acquisition and the integration of AI into language education.

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Published

11/05/2025

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 3 (2025): AI in Language Education

Section

Research Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Bui Thi Thu Giang, Anh Ngoc Van Ngo, Hiep Danh Mai (Author)

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Bui, T. T. G., Ngo, N. V. A., & Mai, D. H. (2025). Applying AI Tools to Enhance Argumentation Skills in Debate Activities for EFL Students. International Journal of AI in Language Education, 2(3), 83-100. https://doi.org/10.54855/ijaile.25236

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