Exploring Ethical considerations in Human-Machine interactions in the EFL : The particular challenges faced by M2 students in using chatbots in the department of English at Mouloud Mammeri University
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Date
2025
Authors
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Université Mouloud Mammeri Tizi Ouzou
Abstract
Algerian EFL learners, like many students around the world, are increasingly interacting with artificial intelligence tools such as chatbots in their academic lives. On this matter, the present study explores the ethical considerations surrounding human–machine interactions in EFL, focusing specifically on the challenges faced by Master 2 students enrolled at the Department of English at Mouloud Mammeri University of Tizi-Ouzou. This research has two main objectives. First, it aims to understand the main ethical concerns students face when using chatbots. Second, it investigates the learners’ moral duty when using chatbots. It explores whether chatbots help students become better learners or if they make them less engaged and less accountable. To reach these aims, the study is founded upon Bloom’s Taxonomy, the ADDIE Model, and Kant’s Ethical Theories, and adopts a mixed-methods approach. An interview and a survey test were used to collect data, which were then analyzed through descriptive statistical analysis and thematic content analysis. The results indicate that whereas several students use chatbots to support their learning such as checking grammar or generating ideas, some express uncertainty about ethical boundaries, including issues of plagiarism and lack of accuracy. Others report a sense of responsibility and actively reflect on how to use these tools in a measured and honest way. Eventually, the study emphasizes the importance of promoting ethical awareness and responsible use of AI tools in EFL learning contexts.
Description
76p. ; (+CD-Rom)
Keywords
Algerian EFL learners, artificial intelligence, chatbots, human–machine interactions in EFL, ethical considerations
Citation
Foreign language didactics