AI-mediated Language Learning as a Psychological Process: Innovations and New Directions

Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs) and adaptive learning systems, is rapidly transforming language learning and language use across formal and informal contexts. While existing research has largely focused on the pedagogical affordances and instructional applications of these technologies, less attention has been paid to the psychological and psycholinguistic processes through which AI-mediated environments shape language learning. As learners increasingly engage with AI systems for interaction, feedback, and language practice, it is essential to understand how these interactions influence core mechanisms such as attention, memory, cognitive load, motivation, self-regulation, and language processing. Addressing these issues is critical for developing a more theoretically grounded and psychologically informed understanding of AI-mediated language learning.This Research Topic aims to reconceptualize AI-mediated language learning and use as psychological processes embedded in human-AI interaction. Moving beyond tool-oriented and outcome-driven perspectives, it focuses on the cognitive, affective, and psycholinguistic mechanisms through which AI influences language learning, processing, and acquisition. In particular, this Research Topic invites research examining how AI-mediated environments affect learners’ attention allocation, feedback processing and uptake, self-regulation, motivation, cognitive load, and broader language processing dynamics. Building on recent advances in LLMs and the learning sciences, we welcome theoretically informed and methodologically rigorous studies that illuminate the mechanisms underlying language learning in AI-rich environments. In doing so, this Research Topic seeks to advance a more process-oriented and psychologically grounded research agenda in AI-mediated language education.We welcome interdisciplinary contributions that investigate the psychological and psycholinguistic dimensions of AI-mediated language learning and use. Relevant themes include, but are not limited to, cognitive processes in AI-mediated language learning, affective and motivational dynamics, feedback processing and uptake, self-regulation and metacognition, and language processing in human-AI interaction. Studies exploring AI-mediated informal learning beyond the classroom are also encouraged. Submissions may adopt experimental, longitudinal, mixed-methods, or data-driven approaches, including learning analytics and behavioral trace data. Both empirical studies and high-quality review or conceptual papers that advance theoretical and methodological perspectives are welcome. All contributions should demonstrate clear relevance to the psychological processes underlying language learning and use in AI-mediated environments.Suggested topic scope:• AI-mediated second language learning and teaching• Cognitive and psycholinguistic mechanisms in AI-mediated language learning• Learner cognition, affect, motivation, and self-regulation• Human-AI interaction in language processing and production• Feedback processing, uptake, and revision in AI-supported language learning• Positive psychology and AI-mediated L2 learning• AI-mediated informal language learning beyond the classroom• Learning analytics and behavioral trace data in AI-rich language learning environments Topic editors: Ali Soyoof, Mehdi Solhi, Boris Vazquez-Calvo, Guangxiang Leon Liu Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80509/ai-mediated-language-learning-as-a-psychological-process-innovations-and-new-directions