Cutting through Complexity: Utilizing GenAI Chatbot to Support Reading Comprehension

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Abstract

Academic reading can be a challenge, especially for English Language Learners who navigate complex texts in English. This study examined whether a generative AI chatbot could aid comprehension and vocabulary learning by reducing cognitive load. In a 10-week statistics course at a university in Cambodia, 92 undergraduates were randomly assigned to a treatment group (using GPT-4o), an active control group (no chatbot, but reporting cognitive load), or a business-as-usual group. Chatbot use was associated with lower extraneous load and higher germane load in each session. Overall, treatment group outperformed other groups on the reading comprehension test. Mediation analysis showed germane load drove the improvement. Vocabulary learning was similar across groups, indicating GenAI did not hinder incidental learning.

Author

• Sotheara Veng, University of Delaware