THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) APPLICATIONS FOR VOCABULARY LEARNING AMONG THAI UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the use of artificial intelligence applications in vocabulary learning among university students, to study the frequency and patterns of use, and to analyze their attitudes and opinions toward vocabulary learning applications. This was a classroom research study using questionnaires and asking for the cooperation of business English major students. Data collection was conducted in April 2024. Out of 40 students, 31 (72.22%) participated in the study, all of whom provided informed consent to participate in the study. The collected data were statistically and content-based analyzed. The results showed that AI applications were widely used among this group of students. In terms of vocabulary learning, the majority of students, 83.80 percent, regularly used these tools. This proportion demonstrates the important role of these AI applications in daily learning routines. The data also indicated that AI tools were mostly used to find new words, practicing pronunciation, and understand words that often appear together, collocation, which showed its effectiveness in enhancing the language learning process. In addition, students expressed positive attitudes towards the AI ​​application, citing its convenience, speed, and effectiveness in developing language skills. Most students were aware of the need to verify the accuracy of the data or answers provided by AI, and teachers still play a role in advising students on their learning. However, there were also concerns about its reliability and the need for supplementary traditional learning methods. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of how AI technologies are used in language education contexts, highlighting the benefits and challenges as perceived and viewed by Thai university students.