THE CHALLENGES OF USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AMONG ENGLISH EDUCATION DEPARTMENT STUDENTS IN LEARNING ENGLISH: A CASE STUDY AT AN ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY IN PEKANBARU

This study aims to explore students’ experiences and challenges they face in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for English language learning in the English Education program at an Islamic university in Pekanbaru. The research adopts a qualitative approach with a case study design. Four students were selected as participants through purposive sampling. Data were primarily collected through indepth interviews, with questionnaires serving as supporting instruments. The findings reveal that students utilize several AI tools, particularly ChatGPT and Perplexity, to support their English learning activities, such as understanding learning materials, checking grammar, translating texts, and generating ideas and references. Although students’ experiences with AI vary, differences were observed in usage frequency, types of AI tools employed, and reasons for use, which were tailored to individual learning needs. The study also identifies several challenges in using AI, including excessive dependence on AI, declining critical thinking skills, and difficulties in verifying the accuracy of AI-generated information.