Capturing the Full Potential of Maltese Language Learning through ChatGPT

The Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT) is a state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) language model developed by OpenAI. It employs advanced deep-learning algorithms to generate text that mimics human language. ChatGPT, launched on November 30, 2022, has rapidly gained widespread recognition. Its influence on the future of technology and artificial intelligence is anticipated to grow even more, considering it has achieved such significance in less than two years since its release. This study investigated the potential of ChatGPT as a tool for enhancing the learning of Maltese for adult international students. This study involved 41 participants who embarked on a journey of exploration and employed ChatGPT for two weeks to support their Maltese learning. The study evaluated the effectiveness of ChatGPT through surveys and focus group discussions and revealed that while ChatGPT was convenient and accessible, its ability to provide accurate responses to students' questions and support Maltese grammar, vocabulary, and conversational practice was limited. The participants expressed frustration with the ChatGPT's limitations in understanding and responding to the Maltese language. This study emphasizes the need to fully unleash the potential of ChatGPT by improving its training on the Maltese language and collaborating with Maltese language and AI experts to better support Maltese language learning. These findings have important implications for the development of ChatGPT for less widely spoken languages such as Maltese.