Integration of artificial intelligence in English language teaching at public schools in Vietnam: Teachers’ perceptions, readiness, and uses

Phuong Ho; Trang Nguyen; Hien Mach

doi:10.65956/tila.2026.29

Authors

Ho Thanh My Phuong Ho Chi Minh City Open University https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1838-3488
Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang Corresponding author email: ntttrang@vnseameo.org SEAMEO Regional Training Center (SEAMEO RETRAC), Vietnam https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7472-8123
Mach Buu Hien SEAMEO Regional Training Center (SEAMEO RETRAC), Vietnam https://orcid.org/0009-0003-1469-367X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65956/tila.2026.29

Keywords:

English Language Teaching (ELT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Teacher Professional Development, AI Integration in ELT

Abstract

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping education, particularly English Language Teaching (ELT). AI offers interactive learning environments that enhance language teaching and learning. However, integrating AI into English teaching at public schools at primary, secondary, and high school levels remains underexplored in Vietnam. This study examines the integration of AI in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in Vietnam. The study particularly investigated EFL teachers’ perceptions, concerns, and readiness to integrate AI in EFL teaching. Data were collected from 247 EFL teachers across primary, secondary and high schools in four southern Vietnamese provinces through surveys, interviews, and classroom observations. Findings provide insights for policymakers, curriculum developers, and educators on the current state of AI adoption in English language teaching. They emphasize teachers’ professional development needs and illustrate how AI can boost student engagement, tailor learning, and improve English language use. While focused on Vietnam, the study contributes to global discussions on AI in education, offering perspectives relevant to similar contexts.

Author Biographies

Ho Thanh My Phuong, Ho Chi Minh City Open University

Ho Thanh My Phuong got her Doctoral Degree from University of Southern California. She has worked as a university lecturer and educational manager for over 30 years. She teaches Graduate programs in TESOL at Curtin and Open University and being the supervisor of several Master Theses and Ph.D. Dissertation in TESOL.
Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang, SEAMEO Regional Training Center (SEAMEO RETRAC), Vietnam

Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang is an EFL teacher for over 20 years. She received her PhD Degree from University of South Australia. She is now the Deputy Dean, Division of Foreign Studies, SEAMEO RETRAC. She has contributed to national and international projects, serving as a reviewer for prestigious journals and conferences.
Mach Buu Hien, SEAMEO Regional Training Center (SEAMEO RETRAC), Vietnam

Mach Buu Hien is currently working as an English teacher, a curriculum developer, and a teacher educator at SEAMEO RETRAC. She graduated from Monash University with a Master degree in TESOL International. Her research interests include curriculum design, ELT Methodology, Language Assessment and Testing and Teacher Professional Development.

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