AI-POWERED GAMIFICATION IN UNIVERSITY EFL INSTRUCTION: ENHANCING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with gamification strategies has emerged as a transformative approach in higher education, particularly for teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) to university students. This article examines the theoretical foundations, practical applications, empirical evidence, benefits, and challenges of AI-powered gamification in EFL contexts. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory and Cognitive Load Theory, the discussion highlights how AI enables personalized, adaptive learning experiences through elements such as points, badges, leaderboards, and real-time feedback. Empirical studies demonstrate significant improvements in student motivation, vocabulary retention, speaking confidence, and long-term language proficiency. However, implementation in university settings requires addressing issues of digital equity, teacher training, and data privacy. The article concludes with recommendations for EFL instructors and policymakers, emphasizing the need for hybrid models that blend AI-driven gamification with traditional pedagogy to foster inclusive and effective language acquisition in diverse university environments. Future research directions include longitudinal studies on sustained learning outcomes and the ethical integration of generative AI tools.人工智能（AI）与游戏化策略的融合已成为高等教育领域的变革性教学范式，尤其适用于面向高校学生的英语作为外语（English as a Foreign Language，EFL）教学。本文探讨了EFL场景下人工智能赋能游戏化的理论基础、实践应用、实证依据、优势与挑战。本文依托自我决定理论（Self-Determination Theory）与认知负荷理论（Cognitive Load Theory），阐述了人工智能如何通过积分、徽章、排行榜及实时反馈等元素，打造个性化、自适应的学习体验。实证研究表明，该模式可显著提升学生的学习动机、词汇留存率、口语自信心以及长期语言熟练度。但在高校场景中落地该模式时，需解决数字公平、教师培训及数据隐私等核心问题。本文最后为EFL教师与政策制定者提出针对性建议，强调需构建融合人工智能驱动的游戏化方案与传统教学法的混合教学模式，以在多元高校环境中推动包容性且高效的语言习得。未来研究方向包括针对持续学习成果的纵向研究，以及生成式AI（Generative AI）工具的伦理化融合应用。