The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Tools on EFL UniversityStudents' Writing Performance: A Study at Najran University, Saudi ‎Arabia

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of artificial intelligence (AI)–based writing tools on the academic writing performance of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) university students in Saudi Arabia. Focusing on widely used AI applications such as ChatGPT and Grammarly, the research examined their effectiveness in improving writing accuracy, coherence, vocabulary development, and overall textual quality. In addition, the study explored students’ perceptions of AI-assisted writing, levels of learner autonomy, and instructors’ attitudes toward integrating AI technologies into writing instruction. A mixed-methods research design was employed, incorporating surveys, writing performance tasks, and semi-structured interviews to collect data from EFL students and faculty members at Najran University. The findings revealed that the use of AI-based writing tools had a positive and statistically significant effect on students’ writing performance, particularly in terms of grammatical accuracy, lexical richness, and coherence. Moreover, students demonstrated favorable attitudes toward AI tools and reported increased learner autonomy, while instructors acknowledged both the pedagogical benefits and the need for guided and ethical use of such technologies. The study concludes that AI-based writing tools can serve as effective instructional support in EFL writing classrooms when integrated thoughtfully. Practical implications are provided for educators, curriculum designers, and higher education policymakers seeking to enhance digital literacy and academic writing instruction in the Saudi context.