ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: AFFORDANCES AND CHALLENGES

This paper explores the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in English Language Teaching (ELT), focusing on its pedagogical advantages and potential challenges. AI-powered tools such as chatbots, virtual assistants, automated writing evaluators, and speech recognition systems have transformed traditional learning environments into interactive and personalized spaces. Through qualitative analysis of recent studies, the paper examines how AI enhances language acquisition, provides adaptive feedback, and supports teachers in managing classroom tasks. At the same time, it highlights issues related to technological dependency, data ethics, and the loss of human interaction. The study concludes that AI, when applied thoughtfully, can complement human teaching and improve educational outcomes.