From Illustration to Story Telling - The Use of Microsoft Bing to Sharpen EFL Learners’ Lexical Competence

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence tools have profoundly transformed language learning and teaching practices. Consequently, numerous AI tools have emerged to meet societal needs with various functions. In this regard, Microsoft Bing’s Co-Pilot distinguishes itself from competitors through its illustration and storytelling features. Although a growing number of studies have explored the effectiveness of Bing in expanding students’ lexical competence globally, this study represents the first attempt to examine the impact of Bing on developing students’ vocabulary skills via image creation and storytelling at the tertiary level in Iraq during the 2024-2025 academic year. Using a stratified random sampling method, 50 freshman students aged 18 to 25 from 10 departments at a private university participated in a nine-week treatment period based on the OWN IT 2 coursebook. Data were collected through a mixed-methods research design, encompassing vocabulary exams, questionnaires, and interviews. The control group received vocabulary instruction as outlined in the teacher’s book, while the experimental group's sessions were enriched using Bing to teach essential words via images and stories. The results revealed that the experimental group outperformed the control group by earning higher grades on vocabulary exams, participating in lessons more willingly, retrieving words more instantly, developing better self-study habits, and demonstrating reduced language learning anxiety. These findings indicate that Bing’s image creation and storytelling features are innovative in effectively capturing students’ attention and enhancing their lexical competence. The study's outcomes have significant implications for English teachers seeking to implement AI-enriched vocabulary lessons and leverage the associated opportunities.