Key dimensions in which AI ChatGPT supports second language teaching and learning

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has developed at a remarkable pace, bringing unprecedented opportunities and challenges to a wide range of fields, including healthcare, finance, and particularly education. Its application in foreign language teaching and learning has shown immense potential. However, as an emerging technology, the integration of AI into education remains in an exploratory stage. Existing studies often focus on isolated functionalities or preliminary outcomes, lacking a systematic and comprehensive theoretical and practical framework. Consequently, there are still significant gaps and controversies regarding the mechanisms, impact pathways, and sustainability of AI in second language acquisition.To address these research gaps, this study takes ChatGPT a representative generative AI tool as its central focus. It adopts the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, adhering to rigorous procedures of planning, execution, and reporting of the review. The goal is to systematically examine and synthesize the current body of domestic and international research on the application of ChatGPT in second language teaching and learning. Specifically, the study aims to identify the key dimensions in which AI can significantly support language instruction such as personalized learning, real-time feedback, motivation enhancement, and productive language output and to explore the mechanisms through which it facilitates language development. Additionally, the review seeks to pinpoint contradictions, limitations, and underexplored areas in the existing literature. Based on these findings, the paper offers targeted recommendations for future research and instructional practice to advance both theoretical understanding and educational effectiveness in the field of second language education.