مطالب

Academic writing has emerged as a central area of inquiry among researchers specializing in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the current study aimed to explore the mediatory role of digital literacy in the writing improvement of EAP learners in a ChatGPT-supported writing course. Following the administration of the Oxford Placement Test (OPT) and digital literacy questionnaire, a cohort of 100 upper-intermediate learners from a non-profit university in Mazandaran, Iran was randomly selected. The participants were then split into two experimental groups (high vs. low digital literacy) and two control groups (high vs. low digital literacy), with each group consisting of 25 participants. The experimental groups received writing instruction that incorporated ChatGPT, while the control groups were taught implementing traditional pedagogical methods devoid of ChatGPT. Data were gathered through pre- and post-writing assessments along with semi-structured interviews. Results from the pre- and post-tests indicated that the experimental groups with either high or low digital literacy exhibited significantly superior academic writing outcomes compared to the control groups. However, no notable disparity was evidenced between the two experimental groups. Analysis of the interviews revealed that ChatGPT contributed greatly to their writing accuracy and fluency, while creating several challenges namely the generation of inappropriate responses and limited access. On implication side, suggestions are offered for prospective EAP students, teachers, teacher educators, and syllabus designers along with a sketch of possible avenues for further exploration.

The present study investigates the challenges of learning English grammar with a focus on the syntactic analysis of relative clauses (RCs) in Persian in contrast to English to identify the most common errors made by Persian learners of English. In addition, it aims to enhance L2 grammar learning and overcome challenges using AI-assisted tools such as Wordtune, Instatext, and ChatGPT in classroom activities. The quantitative data were collected through the RC tests adapted from the models used by Izumi (2003), comprising three test types: sentence combination, interpretation, and grammaticality judgment. These tests were administered before and after the implementation of AI-powered strategies. The result of the tests in intermediate learners revealed that the most recurrent interlingual error was “the use of object pronouns” instead of gaps, while the challenges in “RC reduction” were among the most common intralingual errors. The findings highlight not only the major differences in RC structures between the two languages but also present an innovative approach that uses AI to address these challenges, offering insights for teachers and instructors. Addressing such errors and utilizing technological advances can pave the way for learners and teachers to have more effective learning and teaching strategies.

Introduction: Adhering to advertising ethics can positively affect repeat purchases and customer loyalty. The purpose of this research was to investigate the ethical dimensions of sports business advertisements. Material and Methods: The research method is based on the multi-grounded approach in terms of practical purpose and qualitative data. 15 participants were experts in the field of marketing, sellers, and customers of sports businesses. The sampling method was non-random and purposive. Sampling was carried out until theoretical saturation was reached. The research tool was a semi-structured interview. The interviewing process continued until theoretical saturation (15 people) was reached. Data analysis utilized three-stage coding and was conducted with MAXQDA software. Validation was done using the triangulation approach. Results: The final model of the research was organized into 4 main axes: 1- Effective factors (factors related to the business company, market atmosphere, customer behavior, economic, cultural-social, rules and regulations governing businesses), 2- Strategies (infrastructure and equipment, management and structure, laws and regulations, supervision, training, dissemination, and promotion), 3- Dimensions of ethics in advertising (non-supply of dark products, religious values, methods of promotion and advertising, social values, communication with customers, content production, quality the product of laws and regulations), 4- Consequences (seller's internal satisfaction, branding, financial consequences, customer-related consequences). Conclusion: This research identifies a new ethical approach for sports business ads. It emphasizes the importance of scientific, social, and cultural values, along with adherence to advertising norms and legal compliance. Monitoring should involve existing regulations and technology. Furthermore, sports business licensing should include education on ethical advertising.