THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS ON THE ACADEMIC WRITING PERFORMANCE OF UZBEK EFL UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This study examined the influence of AI tools (ChatGPT, Grammarly, QuillBot, Google Gemini) on the academic writing performance of 60 fourth-year EFL students at Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages. Using a 20-item Likert-scale questionnaire, the study assessed AI usage frequency, perceived benefits, and ethical concerns. Findings showed that most students regularly used AI to improve grammar, generate ideas, and expand vocabulary. While AI tools were perceived as beneficial, concerns about overdependence, reduced critical thinking, and academic integrity were also identified. The study concludes that AI can serve as a valuable supplementary resource when used responsibly under appropriate pedagogical guidance