A Bibliometric Analysis of AI-Powered Technologies in Language Learning: Trends from 2022 to 2025

Authors

  • Ahmad Abdulrahman Alsagoafi

    Department of English Language, King Faisal University, Alhasa 31982, Saudi Arabia
  • Atheer Jassim Aljamal

    Department of English Language, King Faisal University, Alhasa 31982, Saudi Arabia
  • Munirah Ali Alahmad

    Department of English Language, King Faisal University, Alhasa 31982, Saudi Arabia
  • Jumana Waleed Buhaimed

    Department of English Language, King Faisal University, Alhasa 31982, Saudi Arabia
  • Tamadher Abdulallah Alhamdan

    Department of English Language, King Faisal University, Alhasa 31982, Saudi Arabia
  • Muneera Saad Alfadhli

    Department of English Language, King Faisal University, Alhasa 31982, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i12.12311
Received: 30 September 2025 | Revised: 31 October 2025 | Accepted: 4 November 2025 | Published Online: 19 November 2025

Abstract

This bibliometric study explores the scientific landscape of AI-powered technologies in language learning from 2022 to 2025. Using data retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed through VOS viewer and Bibliophagy, the study examined 737 publications. We provide publication trends, key authors, geographical distribution, thematic patterns, and content analysis. The analysis showed a significant increase in publication output, especially in 2024. China, India, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia present as leading contributors, reflecting a geographical shift toward Asian leadership in this field. The focus of the research was on higher education students, writing skills, and motivation. ChatGPT and other AI tools, such as Grammarly and QuillBot, are common subjects in discussions about AI-powered technologies. The most used research method in the studies is the quantitative method, underscoring the need for more qualitative and mixed method approaches to capture learners' and teachers' perspectives. We explore several challenges, including overreliance on AI, data privacy, and academic integrity. The findings also highlighted positive outcomes, such as improved self-efficacy, greater engagement, and providing real-time feedback in language learning. Notably, gaps remain in addressing early education levels, speaking skills, and the roles of teachers, presenting opportunities for future research and practical implementation in language education.

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence; Language Learning; Research Trends; Research Patterns; Bibliometric Analysis; AI Integration

References

[1] Harry, A., 2023. Role of AI in education. Interdiciplinary Journal and Hummanity (INJURITY). 2(3), 260–268.

[2] Rebolledo Font De La Vall, R., González Araya, F., 2023. Exploring the benefits and challenges of AI-language learning tools. International Journal of Social Sciences and Humanity Invention. 10(1), 7569–7576.

[3] Balcı, Ö., 2024. The role of ChatGPT in English as a foreign language (EFL) learning and teaching: A systematic review. Available from: https://zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.12544675 (cited 10 September 2025).

[4] Creely, E., 2024. Exploring the role of generative AI in enhancing language learning: Opportunities and challenges. International Journal of Change in Education. 1(3), 158–167.

[5] Mageira, K., Pittou, D., Papasalouros, A., et al., 2022. Educational AI chatbots for content and language integrated learning. Applied Sciences. 12(7), 3239.

[6] Banh, L., Strobel, G., 2023. Generative artificial intelligence. Electronic Markets. 33(1), 63.

[7] Kasneci, E., Sessler, K., Küchemann, S., et al., 2023. ChatGPT for good? On opportunities and challenges of large language models for education. Learning and Individual Differences. 103, 102274.

[8] Donthu, N., Kumar, S., Mukherjee, D., et al., 2021. How to conduct a bibliometric analysis: An overview and guidelines. Journal of Business Research. 133, 285–296. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2021.04.070

[9] Passas, I., 2024. Bibliometric analysis: The main steps. Encyclopedia. 4(2), 1014–1025. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia4020065

[10] Schotten, M., Meester, W.J., Steiginga, S., et al., 2017. A brief history of Scopus: The world’s largest abstract and citation database of scientific literature. In Research Analytics. Auerbach Publications: Boca Raton, FL, USA. pp. 31–58.

[11] Selcuk, A.A., 2019. A guide for systematic reviews: PRISMA. Turkish Archives of Otorhinolaryngology. 57(1), 57–58.

[12] Van Eck, N.J., Waltman, L., 2010. Software survey: VOSviewer, a computer program for bibliometric mapping. Scientometrics. 84(2), 523–538.

[13] Hair Jr., J.F., Hult, G.T.M., Ringle, C.M., et al., 2021. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) Using R: A Workbook. Springer Nature: Singapore.

[14] Rahman, A., Raj, A., Tomy, P., et al., 2024. A comprehensive bibliometric and content analysis of artificial intelligence in language learning: Tracing between the years 2017 and 2023. Artificial Intelligence Review. 57(4), 107.

[15] Chen, X., Meurers, D., Rebuschat, P., 2022. ICALL offering individually adaptive input: Effects of complex input on L2 development. Language Learning and Technology. 26(1), 1–21.

[16] Chen, X.P.X., 2024. Human-in-the-loop: A conceptual framework for business English teachers’ AI-empowered assessment. In Learning Technologies and Systems. Springer Nature: Singapore. pp. 204–213.

[17] Guo, K., Li, D., 2024. Understanding EFL students’ use of self-made AI chatbots as personalized writing assistance tools: A mixed-methods study. System. 124, 103362.

[18] Guo, K., Pan, M., Li, Y., et al., 2024. Effects of an AI-supported approach to peer feedback on university EFL students’ feedback quality and writing ability. Internet and Higher Education. 63, 100962.

[19] Guo, K., Wang, J., Chu, S.K.W., 2022. Using chatbots to scaffold EFL students’ argumentative writing. Assessing Writing. 54, 100666.

[20] Mohammad, T., 2024. Challenging traditional EFL writing classroom using AI-mediated tool: A paradigm shift. World Journal of English Language. 14(2), 211.

[21] Mohammad, T., Nazim, M., Alzubi, A.A.F., et al., 2023. Examining EFL students’ motivation level in using QuillBot to improve paraphrasing skills. World Journal of English Language. 14(1), 501.

[22] Mohammad, T., Alzubi, A.A.F., Nazim, M., et al., 2023. Assessing the effectiveness of QuillBot-mediated instruction in enhancing EFL students’ paraphrasing skills. International Journal of Instructional Technology. 24, 8349–8357.

[23] Mohammad, T., Alzubi, A.A., Nazim, M., et al., 2023. EFL paraphrasing skills with QuillBot: Unveiling students’ enthusiasm and insights. Journal of Pedagogical Research. 7(5), 359–373.

[24] Mohammad, T., Falah Alzubi, A.A., Nazim, M.O.H.D., et al., 2024. Evaluating the effectiveness of QuillBot in improving students’ paraphrasing skills: Teachers’ voices. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology. 102(6), 2556–2567.

[25] Wang, Y., 2024. Cognitive and sociocultural dynamics of self-regulated use of machine translation and generative AI tools in academic EFL writing. System. 126, 103505.

[26] Wang, Y., 2025. A study on the efficacy of ChatGPT-4 in enhancing students’ English communication skills. Sage Open. 15(1), 21582440241310644.

[27] Wahyuni, S., Hidayanto, P.S.P.N., Efendi, A., 2024. Trends in artificial intelligence-infused English language learning: A comprehensive bibliometric and content review. Advances in Education. 12(25), 162–178.

[28] Jaleniauskienė, E., Lisaitė, D., Daniusevičiūtė-Brazaitė, L., 2023. Artificial intelligence in language education: A bibliometric analysis. Sustainability in Multilingualism. 23(1), 159–194.

[29] Yaseen, M.G., Alnakeeb, S.S., 2023. Exploring the evolution of AI integration in English as a foreign language education: A Scopus-based bibliometric analysis (1997–2023). Mesopotamian Journal of Computer Science. 2023, 143–158.

[30] Doğan, Y., Talan, T., 2024. Artificial intelligence in foreign language learning: A bibliometric analysis. Journal of Pedagogical Research. Available from: https://www.ijopr.com/article/artificial-intelligence-in-foreign-language-learning-a-bibliometric-analysis-15741 (cited 9 July 2025).

[31] Ikramunnisa, E., Mahardika, S., Afandi, A., et al., 2022. Bibliometric analysis on EFL publication trends in 2011–2021 using VOSviewer. CELT: Journal of Culture, English Language Teaching and Literature. 22(2), 259–280.

[32] Hasanah, U., Palangngan, S.T.B., 2024. Bibliometric analysis of AI-driven tools in English language teaching. Proceedings of ICoLT-Hybrid Conference. 1(1), 85–100.

[33] Muslimin, A.I., 2024. Bibliometric analysis of artificial intelligence integration in English as a foreign language education: Trends and patterns. JET ADI BUANA. 9(1), 79–92.

[34] Prahani, B.K., Rizki, I.A., Jatmiko, B., et al., 2022. Artificial intelligence in education research during the last ten years: A review and bibliometric study. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET). 17(8), 169–188.

[35] Maphosa, V., Maphosa, M., 2023. Artificial intelligence in higher education: A bibliometric analysis and topic modeling approach. Applied Artificial Intelligence. 37(1), 2261730.

[36] Liang, J.C., Hwang, G.J., Chen, M.R.A., et al., 2023. Roles and research foci of artificial intelligence in language education: An integrated bibliographic analysis and systematic review approach. Interactive Learning Environments. 31(7), 4270–4296.

[37] Zhang, X., Umeanowai, K.O., 2025. Exploring the transformative influence of artificial intelligence in EFL context: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis. Education and Information Technologies. 30(3), 3183–3198.

[38] Huang, X., Zou, D., Cheng, G., et al., 2023. Trends, research issues and applications of artificial intelligence in language education. Educational Technology and Society. 26(1), 112–131.

Downloads

How to Cite

Alsagoafi, A. A., Jassim Aljamal, A., Alahmad, M. A., Waleed Buhaimed, J., Abdulallah Alhamdan, T., & Saad Alfadhli, M. (2025). A Bibliometric Analysis of AI-Powered Technologies in Language Learning: Trends from 2022 to 2025. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(12), 1362–1379. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i12.12311

Issue

Vol. 7 , Iss. 12 (December 2025): In progress

Article Type

Review

License

Copyright © 2025 Ahmad Abdulrahman Alsagoafi, Atheer Jassim Aljamal, Munirah Ali Alahmad, Jumana Waleed Buhaimed, Tamadher Abdulallah Alhamdan, Muneera Saad Alfadhli

Creative Commons License

This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License.