Artificial Intelligence in Language and Literary Studies: Benefits and Challenges

• Joseph Abuh

  Department of English, Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa

  Author

• Valentine Chimenem Owhorodu

  School of Foundation and General Studies, Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, Port Harcourt

  Author

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors, including education, continues to attract robust scholarly attention. While the integration of AI into education has sparked significant pedagogical transformation, a notable gap persists in research concerning its specific implications for the field of language and literary studies. This paper critically examines both the potentials and pitfalls of AI applications in this unique domain. It highlights how AI-driven tools such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, and QuillBot are transforming pedagogical practices, enhancing textual analysis, supporting language and cultural preservation, stimulating creative thinking, and streamlining research and documentation processes. However, the study also addresses key challenges, including diminished critical thinking, academic dishonesty, loss of authenticity, and the risk of superficial engagement with literary texts. By emphasising the need for balance between human intellect and machine efficiency, this paper advocates for a thoughtful integration of AI—one that preserves the critical, creative, and cultural dimensions fundamental to language and literary scholarship. It concludes by recommending educational strategies that promote active learning, ethical engagement, and critical evaluation of AI-generated content.

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