Title: L2 learners' perceptions of a chatbot as a potential independent language learning tool

Authors: Lucas Kohnke

Addresses: Department of English Language Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Abstract: Independent language learning is paramount for those wishing to develop proficiency in a second or foreign language. Language learners often have few opportunities to communicate and interact actively in their target language. In this two-phase study, a chatbot was developed to assist second-language learners at a tertiary education institution in Hong Kong with independent language learning. I employed a questionnaire (N = 128) followed by semi-structured interviews (N = 12) to gain holistic insight into learners' experiences with the chatbot. The results suggested that the participants enjoyed interacting with the chatbot both in and out of class and perceived that it improved their English skills. These findings have implications for language teachers and the future development of chatbots.

Keywords: chatbots; L2; EAP; tertiary education; independent language learning; language learning; dialogflow.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2023.128339

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2023 Vol.17 No.1/2, pp.214 - 226

Received: 18 Feb 2021
Accepted: 07 Jun 2021
Published online: 18 Jan 2023 *