Challenges and Opportunities in Utilizing AI Tools for the Assessment of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: The Case Study of LMD 3 EFL Students at the University of Tlemcen

Abstract

Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are the two fundamental skills that are sought out in the field of education, especially in the world of English as a Foreign Language. Although they are crucial, the measurement of these skills has traditionally been tough. Nevertheless, the advent of artificial intelligence opens up new opportunities for the reorganization of assessment procedures. This research focuses on the use of artificial intelligence technology to evaluate the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities of third-year EFL students at the University of Tlemcen. This research was an exploratory case study design, using a mixedmethods approach for data gathering. Students’ questionnaires, teachers’ interviews and classroom observations were the main data collection tools. The findings suggest that although there is a general positive view of AI tools for assessment, their implementation is faced with major issues. The participants acknowledge the advantages of artificial intelligence tools like enhanced efficiencyand standardized testing, but they raise the issue of the limitations of artificial intelligence in dealing with the complexity of these skills. In conclusion, artificial intelligence tools can be a great option to evaluate critical thinking and problem- solving skills, but their limitations must be dealt with to ensure their full integration into English as a Foreign Language education.