Reinforcement Learning Supplementing Communicative Language Teaching: Examining the Applications of ChatGPT in ELT Classrooms

Abstract

This study explores the supplementing features of newly embarking invention in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), especially the application of ChatGPT in English Language Teaching (ELT) classrooms. Language learners often experience a lack of a native-like environment, making them uncomfortable in ELT classrooms (Horwitz, Horwitz & Cope 1986). The study aims to investigate that how Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is supplemented by Reinforcement Learning (RL) in ELT classrooms to make the ELT process smooth. Randomly selected BS English students' and teacher's views are collected through questionnaires. The research uses a mixed-method approach. AntConc, Software is applied for quantitative data analysis, while for qualitative, different activities are performed on AI by giving instructions. This research hypothesized that reinforcement learning is a supplement to communicative language teaching. This research is based on the constructivist paradigm which is based on the fact that that meanings are unstable depending on context. On ChatGPT human like conversation always generate new sentence and meaning in the given context. Reinforcement learning theory by Open AI is used in theoretical background. It is based to solve a wide range of complex decision-making tasks through machine (Dong, Dong, Ding, Zhang & Chang (2020).  CLT teaching method is arguably complemented by RL. Thus both worked as theoretical background of this study. Investigation from teachers and students shows significant results in favor of ChatGPT as an effective application in ELT classrooms. The study reveals that machine reinforcement is complementary to human reinforcement or Human teacher in CLT class. ChatGPT outperforms social media applications in the ELT environment, and it streamlines the process for teachers and students by reducing time constraints and enabling them to achieve their goals more efficiently and in a native environment. The study concludes that Chat GPT is a distinguished social interaction chatbot that significantly enhances the ELT environment. ChatGPT is a popular tool among language learning institutions, teachers, and students, but the study highlights the need for responsible technology usage.