User Attitudes Toward AI Language Tools: Focus on ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Quillbot

Abstract

With the development of technology, artificial intelligence influences learner performance in language learning environments. Beyond investigating users’ perceptions on the effects of these AI language tools on vocabulary learning, grammar skills, reading comprehension and speaking confidence, this paper explores how 73 academic and professional users employ ChatGPT, Grammarly and QuillBot in their language development activities.   According to the data, ChatGPT is being used most widely, followed by Grammarly and QuillBot. Based on this study, users adopt a deliberative hybrid strategy which combines QuillBot on the refinement and paraphrase requirements, Grammarly for the grammatical fix, and ChatGPT for content generation. They indicated that they gained more vocabulary knowledge (64.9%), made more grammar accuracy improvement (47.0%) and increased reading comprehension ability (58.6%) in terms of perceived skill development, indicating AI technology can function as effective scaffolding supports for written and receptive language abilities. However, the results on speaking confidence were mixed and in general it suggests that AI platforms which are largely text-based do not help much with oral communication.   These findings support the need for speech specific properties and, if sufficiently adapted to language learning in general, AI-based WLTs might be a useful complement when learning languages particularly as for written and receptive skills. The study raises the requirement for longitudinal research focusing on potential long-term outcomes of using AI tools for developing authentic language competence-related tasks, and contributes to ongoing discussions about how AI tools can be integrated into language learning. Remember this is self-reported information.