Assessing Students’ Attitudes Toward the Use of Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT) on the Critical Thinking Skills and Creativity of EFL Learners Among Students at Badghis University

Abstract

The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has created new opportunities for developing higher-order cognitive skills; however, limited empirical research has examined its influence within under-resourced EFL contexts such as Afghanistan. This study aimed to assess students’ attitudes toward the use of Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT) and its impact on the critical thinking skills and creativity of EFL learners at Badghis University. A quantitative descriptive research design was employed. Data were collected from 150 undergraduate students across all academic levels using a structured questionnaire consisting of 20 Likert-scale items. The instrument demonstrated acceptable internal reliability and was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and mean scores). The findings revealed a highly positive perception of ChatGPT’s educational value. 88.23% of participants reported that ChatGPT enhanced their creativity by supporting idea generation, innovative expression, and problemsolving. Similarly, 85% of students indicated improvement in critical thinking, particularly in analyzing information, questioning assumptions, and evaluating arguments. Overall, 88.23% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that ChatGPT positively contributes to both creative and analytical learning, while only 7.93% expressed concerns regarding over-reliance and reduced originality. This study fills an important research gap by providing empirical evidence from an Afghan higher-education EFL context, where AI integration remains underexplored. The findings highlight ChatGPT as a valuable pedagogical support tool that can foster higher-order thinking when used responsibly. The study offers practical implications for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers seeking to integrate AI into language education while maintaining learners’ independent thinking and creativity.