Investigating the Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools on EFL Students’ Critical Thinking in Academic Writing Case of 3rd Year Students at Tlemcen University

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Artificial Intelligence tools on EFL students’ critical thinking in academic writing among at Tlemcen University. Using an interview and two types of tests, the researchers found that AI can both support and/or hinder students’ critical thinking in academic writing, depending largely on how it is utilized. The findings highlighted that AI use can negatively affect EFL students by diminishing their critical thinking abilities and creativity in writing. Accordingly, specific recommendations are proposed at the end of the dissertation to mitigate these adverse effects and promote more thoughtful and effective integration of AI tools.