CAN CHATGPT HELP EFL LEARNERS IMPROVE WRITING COHERENCE? BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS

Abstract

This study explores the perceived effectiveness of ChatGPT in helping English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners improve writing coherence. Using a qualitative survey of 20 university-level EFL learners, the research investigates how ChatGPT supports paragraph flow, transition usage, and logical structure, while also examining its limitations. Findings reveal that 75% of respondents found ChatGPT useful for enhancing surface-level coherence, such as transitions and sentence clarity. However, only 45% believed it contributed meaningfully to deeper coherence aspects like argument development and logical reasoning. While 58% preferred ChatGPT for instant feedback, 72% still valued human instructors for nuanced input. The study concludes that ChatGPT serves as a helpful supplement but cannot fully replace human feedback in coherence development. Implications highlight the importance of guided use and critical awareness when integrating AI tools in EFL writing instruction.