Exploring the Use of Alexa as a Motivational Tool in English Language Learning Among EFL Students in Israel

Globalization and the status of English as a world language significantly impact the teaching and learning of English worldwide; today, we face a changing and challenging world characterized by globalization, technology, and mobility. As educators, we must embrace this change, integrating digital resources into day-to-day teaching. This groundbreaking research study delved into the potential of leveraging Alexa, Amazon’s artificial intelligence and personal assistant, to enhance motivation, confidence, engagement, and language learning outcomes for English as a foreign language (EFL) students in Israel. The study aimed to explore how Alexa could be utilized in English language learning to foster positive student outcomes. The study drew on theories of language acquisition and pedagogical learning theories to examine how Alexa could be integrated into day-to-day teaching to promote the development of English language skills. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 EFL students using Alexa as a learning tool. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes related to the student’s experiences with Alexa and its perceived benefits. The findings reveal that interacting with Alexa positively influenced students’ motivation to learn English, enhanced their confidence and engagement, and provided a non-judgmental environment for practice. Moreover, students identified vocabulary expansion, pronunciation improvement, grammar enhancement, listening comprehension development, and immediate feedback as key benefits of using Alexa. These insights contribute to our understanding of the potential of AI-powered tools in language education and highlight the importance of integrating technology in the EFL classroom.