informal-learning
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- PaperApplied Linguistics2 Jul 2026
Correction to: Online commenting culture and ideologies of language learning: Masculinities, optimization and techno-solutionism in an informal learning community
A correction notice for a previous article examining how online commenting culture reflects ideologies of language learning, including masculinities, optimization, and techno-solutionism in an informal learning community.
- PaperComputers and Education: Artificial Intelligence22 Jun 2026
Conversational AI as a catalyst for informal learning: An empirical large-scale study on LLM use in everyday learning
Nađa Terzimehić, Babette Bühler, Enkelejda Kasneci
A large-scale survey of 776 German participants found that 88% already incorporate LLMs into their everyday learning routines, with young adults leading adoption. Four distinct learner types emerged based on tasks and devices, though users showed paradoxical trust in LLM accuracy and privacy. The findings highlight the need for diverse media, collaborative learning, and design that supports different learner needs.
Original abstract
Large language models have not only captivated the public imagination but have also sparked a profound rethinking of how we learn. In the third year following the breakthrough launch of ChatGPT, everyday informal learning has been transformed as these novel tools become easily and widely available. Who is embracing LLMs for self-directed learning, and who remains hesitant? What are their reasons for adoption or avoidance? What learning patterns emerge with this novel technological landscape? We present an in-depth analysis from a large-scale survey of 776 German participants, showcasing that 88% of our respondents already incorporate LLMs into their everyday learning routines for a wide variety of (learning) tasks. Young adults among German-based, digitally engaged users are at the forefront of adopting LLMs, primarily to enhance their learning experiences independently of time and space. Four types of learners emerge across learning contexts, depending on the tasks they perform with LLMs and the devices they use to access them. Interestingly, our respondents exhibit paradoxical behaviours regarding their trust in LLMs’ accuracy and privacy protection measures. Our implications emphasize the importance of including different media types for learning, enabling collaborative learning, providing sources and meeting the needs of different types of learners and learning by design.
- PaperLanguage Teaching27 Mar 2026
Informal second language learning
Henriette L. Arndt, Meryl Kusyk
This paper explores how learners engage in second language acquisition outside formal educational settings, emphasizing the role of naturalistic exposure and self-directed practices.
- PaperReCALL25 Nov 2025
Informal digital learning of English in teachers: development and validation of a scale – CORRIGENDUM
Afsheen Rezai
This corrigendum corrects errors in the original paper on the development and validation of a scale for measuring informal digital learning of English among teachers.
- PaperReCALL30 Oct 2025
A scoping review of AI-mediated informal language learning: Mapping out the terrain and identifying future directions
Guangxiang Leon Liu, Xian Zhao
A scoping review of 65 empirical studies maps the emerging field of AI-mediated informal language learning (AI-ILL), characterized by exponential growth after ChatGPT's release and a concentration in East Asia. Findings highlight that learners' practices are influenced by cognitive, affective, and sociocontextual factors, with benefits including enhanced speaking proficiency and reduced communication anxiety. The review situates AI-ILL within intelligent CALL and outlines future research directions.
Original abstract
This scoping review directs attention to artificial intelligence–mediated informal language learning (AI-ILL), defined as autonomous, self-directed, out-of-class second and foreign language (L2) learning practices involving AI tools. Through analysis of 65 empirical studies published up to mid-April 2025, it maps the landscape of this emerging field and identifies the key antecedents and outcomes. Findings revealed a nascent field characterized by exponential growth following ChatGPT’s release, geographical concentration in East Asia, methodological dominance of cross-sectional designs, and limited theoretical foundations. Analysis also demonstrated that learners’ AI-mediated informal learning practices are influenced by cognitive, affective, and sociocontextual factors, while producing significant benefits across linguistic, affective, and cognitive dimensions, particularly enhanced speaking proficiency and reduced communication anxiety. This review situates AI-ILL as an evolving subfield within intelligent CALL and suggests important directions for future research to understand the potential of constantly emerging AI technologies in supporting autonomous L2 development beyond the classroom.