YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) College of Humanities and Social Sciences is pleased to announce that Emma Aleksanyan (MATEFL ’25), together with her adviser, Dr. Irshat Madyarov, presented her thesis, titled “A Case Study of EFL Learners’ Experiences of Using Interactive Fiction with ChatGPT: A Sociocultural Perspective,” at The Future of Education Conference in Florence, Italy.
Framed by Sociocultural Theory (SCT), this case study explored how ChatGPT can mediate the development of English as a Foreign Language learners’ speaking and writing skills through Interactive Fiction tasks. The findings revealed that while the initial learner–ChatGPT interactions were not aligned with SCT principles, revised and improved prompts gradually created learning experiences that more closely reflected SCT-based learning conditions. The research highlighted the potential of Interactive Fiction tasks to create immersive and engaging contexts for language practice. It also showed that, when guided by carefully designed prompts, ChatGPT can serve as a dialogic partner and mediator within learners’ Zone of Proximal Development, supporting engagement, self-regulation, reflection, and the development of speaking and writing skills.
Reflecting on the experience, Aleksanyan remarked: “The conference was highly successful and it is great that we had the opportunity to present our research and have several engaging discussions.”
“Emma’s thesis is a great example of a study where a learning theory can inform teaching practice,” said Dr. Madyarov. “I’m proud of Emma’s accomplishment in getting this conference presentation published in peer-reviewed proceedings, indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.”
The presentation reflects AUA’s continued engagement with innovative approaches to language education and research-informed teaching practices. Sharing this conference experience with the TEFL community further contributes to ongoing conversations about the role of artificial intelligence in English language learning and teaching.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.
