Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Special Issue on Artificial Intelligence, No. 3. 2026. Pp.132-146

Developing Students’ Critical Thinking through AI-Enhanced Foreign Language Instruction

Foreign Languages Department, Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical
University, Ternopil, Ukraine

Corresponding Author: lubazab@tnpu.edu.ua

Foreign Languages Department, Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical
University, Ternopil, Ukraine

Foreign Languages Department, Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical
University, Ternopil, Ukraine

Foreign Languages Department, Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical
University, Ternopil, Ukraine

Foreign Languages Department, Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical
University, Ternopil, Ukraine

Abstract:

This study examines the role of artificial intelligence-generated content in foreign language instruction as a means of developing undergraduate students’ critical thinking skills. It aims to evaluate teaching strategies that encourage learners to analyze, revise, and reflect on digital texts. Earlier studies often treated artificial intelligence tools as merely a supportive aid; here, they are positioned as a source for critique. The authors exploited a quasi-experimental mixed-methods design.  The pedagogical experiment involved 64 first- and second-year students from intact classes at Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University in Ukraine. Participants were selected through convenience sampling from intact classes, with one class serving as the experimental group and another as the control.  The experimental group received instruction based on the proposed model, while the control group followed a traditional curriculum. Data were collected through pre‑ and post‑tests using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST), surveys, and classroom observations, and analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Findings revealed that students in the experimental group demonstrated enhanced critical thinking skills, including the ability to question digital outputs, improved metacognitive awareness, and increased use of evidence-based reasoning. The study presents a pedagogical model that integrates technology with critical thinking objectives, promoting learner autonomy, digital literacy, and curriculum improvement. Future investigations should extend this model across disciplines and proficiency levels.

Cite as:

Zablotska, L. , Chernii, L., Meleshchenko, V., Olendr, T., & Tsar, I. (2026). Developing Students’ Critical Thinking through AI-Enhanced Foreign Language Instruction. Arab World English Journal, Special Issue on Artificial Intelligence, (3):132-146

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Lyubov Zablotska, a Lecturer of Foreign Language, a holder of a Ph.D. in Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Foreign Language Department at Ternopil V. Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, Ukraine. Her research interests include teaching methods, cross-cultural communication, innovations in Education, and English as a foreign language.
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4388-4710

 Liudmyla Chernii, a Lecturer of Foreign Language, a holder of a Ph.D. in Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Foreign Language Department at Ternopil V. Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, Ukraine. Her research interests include: higher education, foreign language teaching methods, and English as a Second Language.
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4755-9536

 Vira Meleshchenko, a Lecturer of Foreign Language, a holder of a PhD in Philology, Associate Professor of the Foreign Language Department at Ternopil V. Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, Ukraine. Her research interests include cross-cultural studies, text linguistics, and discourse analysis. ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3484-9905

Tetiana Olendr, a Lecturer of Foreign Language, a holder of a Ph.D. in Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Foreign Language Department at Ternopil V. Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, Ukraine. Her research interests include teaching methods, innovations in Education, and English as a Foreign Language. ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1665-6413

Iryna Tsar, a Lecturer of Foreign Language, a holder of a Ph.D. in Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Foreign Language Department at Ternopil V. Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, Ukraine. Her research interests include teaching methods, innovations in Education, and German as a Second Language. ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8042-4839