AI-ENHANCED MODULE FOR ESP LEARNERS: THE CASE OF FINANCIAL LITERACY

Abstract

In a rapidly growing era of technological innovations, the field of education is continuously challenged by the evolving number of generative AI tools, which create opportunities for foreign language learning and teaching. The present study aims to explore how AI can be effectively integrated into English for Specific Purposes (ESP) course design and materials development by introducing a five-week multimodal module on financial literacy. At the initial stage, a questionnaire was designed to identify the gaps in financial knowledge and skills, along with the language needs of first-year students at Yerevan State University. Next, targeted authentic materials were combined with teacher- and AI-generated resources to implement in the classroom. Finally, to evaluate students’ perceptions of the multimodal instructional approach and its usefulness in improving their financial knowledge, language skills and confidence in discussing finance- and money-related topics in English, student feedback was collected through teacher observations, discussions, an achievement test and a final survey. The study offers practical insights into the application of AI-generated materials in tandem with textbook resources for ESP contexts.