Evaluating Students’ Access To and Use of Artificial Intelligence-Based Tool in Enhancing Attitude Towards English Vocabulary Learning in University of Calabar, Nigeria

In this modern age, proficiency in English vocabulary is essential for academic success, global communication, and career advancement. However, many university students struggle with vocabulary acquisition due to a lack of engagement, personalized learning, and effective practice methods. Traditional teaching approaches often fail to cater to diverse learning needs, making it necessary to explore innovative solutions. Literature tells that technological-based tools aids students’ learning and produces better results. The research aims to ascertain the influence of students’ access to, and use of ChatGPT artificial intelligence-based tool on their attitude towards English Vocabulary learning in University of Calabar, Nigeria. Two research questions guided the study while two hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted descriptive survey research design and the population of the study consist of 343 English Language students of 200 level from Arts Education Department of the University of Calabar. Purposive and census sampling techniques were used to select the sample for the study. A well validated ‘Students’ Access to, and Use of Artificial Intelligence-based Tool Questionnaire (SAUAITQ) and Students’ Attitude Towards English Vocabulary Learning Questionnaire (SATEVLQ) were used to collect the required data. Simple Linear Regression was the statistical tools used for analysis of data collected. The result of the analysis revealed that there is a significant influence of students’ access to, and use of artificial intelligence-based tool on their attitude towards English Vocabulary learning. Sequel to the findings of this study, it was recommended, among others that University language departments should integrate AI-based vocabulary learning tools into their curriculum. AI-powered applications (example, ChatGPT), can enhance students’ engagement and motivation by providing adaptive learning experiences tailored to their proficiency levels and learning styles.

Keywords: Students’ access to AI-based tool, Students’ use of AI -based tool, Students’ attitude, English Vocabulary Learning