AUTHOR=Huang Yanbin , Chen Huanhui , Hu Changyue 

TITLE=L2 growth mindset in AI-mediated language learning: effects of perceived usability and presence of generative AI chatbots

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Psychology

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1700117

DOI=10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1700117

ISSN=1664-1078

ABSTRACT=IntroductionThis study examines perceived usability and presence of generative AI chatbots influence second language (L2) growth mindset in the context of AI-mediated oral learning.MethodsA SEM was tested with survey data from 530 Chinese university students engaged in AI-assisted oral English learning. The model examined direct and indirect relationships among perceived usability, presence, emotional intelligence, willingness to communicate (WTC), and L2 growth mindset.ResultsResults show that perceived usability directly promotes L2 growth mindset and is indirectly influenced by WTC. Presence not only has a direct positive effect on L2 growth mindset but also has a dual positive mediating effect through emotional intelligence and WTC.DiscussionThese findings suggest that AI chatbots act not only as learning tools but as cognitive partners, whose usability and immersive features foster learners’ belief in the malleability of language ability. The study advances theory on technology-supported growth mindset and provides empirical evidence to inform AI-driven language learning practices.