Exploring the relationship between undergraduate students’ self-rgulated learning (SRL) abilities and the perception and purpose of use for ChatGPT in English language learning

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the self-regulated learning (SRL) abilities and attitudes of learners towards ChatGPT, exploring potential connections between various aspects of SRL (metacognitive, cognitive, behavioral, and motivational) and the use of ChatGPT. To achieve this, we conducted a questionnaire survey with 111 undergraduate students, and the data was analyzed using SPSS Version 27. The key findings from the study are as follows: Participants generally demonstrated moderately developed SRL abilities shown as 3.02. ChatGPT was found to be beneficial, particularly for tasks such as information retrieval, idea generation, providing support for structuring written work, and offering feedback to enhance writing skills. However, they expressed doubts about its effectiveness for improving their English language skills. Examining the correlations between SRL abilities and the use of ChatGPT revealed a negative impact. Students with stronger metacognitive, cognitive, and motivational strategies tend to use ChatGPT less for generating ideas. Implications include the observation that students with robust SRL skills approach ChatGPT critically, using it as a support for independent learning rather than a direct answer source. Additionally, the study suggests that EFL instructors could integrate technology to encourage critical thinking and employ AI platforms as tools for promoting academic integrity.