This study explores Iranian EFL teachers’ perceptions of integrating ChatGPT into English language instruction. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with teachers from different educational contexts. Thematic analysis, supported by the NVivo software, disclosed that teachers usually see ChatGPT as a worthwhile supplementary device, especially for tasks like grammar correction, essay generation, and lesson planning. Teachers admitted its potential to enhance student engagement and boost autonomous learning, especially among weaker learners. However, critical concerns were raised about ethical implications, including misinformation, plagiarism, and reduced critical thinking. The participants unanimously accentuated that ChatGPT cannot replace the emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and real-time responsiveness suggested by human teachers. Instead, it was seen as a digital assistant that needs pedagogical mediation and ethical oversight. The findings are in agreement with global literature, underscoring the necessity for teacher training, prompt literacy, and well-defined institutional policies to ensure responsible AI integration. This research contributes to the growing discourse on AI in education by offering context-specific insights and recommendations for ethical and effective use of ChatGPT in EFL classrooms undergoing digital transformation.
Ghorbani, V. R (2025). Can ChatGPT Replace Human Teachers? Insights from Iranian EFL Teachers’ Perceptions. Journal of Studies in Language Learning and Teaching, 2(1), -. doi: 10.22034/jsllt.2025.23404.1087
MLA
Ghorbani, V. R. "Can ChatGPT Replace Human Teachers? Insights from Iranian EFL Teachers’ Perceptions", Journal of Studies in Language Learning and Teaching, 2, 1, 2025, -. doi: 10.22034/jsllt.2025.23404.1087
HARVARD
Ghorbani, V. R (2025). 'Can ChatGPT Replace Human Teachers? Insights from Iranian EFL Teachers’ Perceptions', Journal of Studies in Language Learning and Teaching, 2(1), pp. -. doi: 10.22034/jsllt.2025.23404.1087
CHICAGO
V. R Ghorbani, "Can ChatGPT Replace Human Teachers? Insights from Iranian EFL Teachers’ Perceptions," Journal of Studies in Language Learning and Teaching, 2 1 (2025): -, doi: 10.22034/jsllt.2025.23404.1087
VANCOUVER
Ghorbani, V. R Can ChatGPT Replace Human Teachers? Insights from Iranian EFL Teachers’ Perceptions. Journal of Studies in Language Learning and Teaching, 2025; 2(1): -. doi: 10.22034/jsllt.2025.23404.1087
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