ChatGPT has been utilised across various applications, such as language translation, content generation, and language modelling. This empirical study examines how this technological tool is used by a class of postgraduate students to develop their research and language skills. 36 participants, comprising MA, MPhil, and PhD students, were involved. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey and interviews. Results from the questionnaire indicated that the majority of participants agreed that ChatGPT assisted them in doing their research work. This assistance included generating initial ideas for the literature review, summarising past studies, synthesising information from multiple sources, summarising past research articles, exploring concepts and theories for the research, developing more precise questions, rewriting the problem statement and learning how to summarise and paraphrase. Results from the interviews revealed three themes on ChatGPT's function as a research tool: guidance, making inquiry and writing. Meanwhile, the participants reported in the interviews that they developed language skills such as summarising, paraphrasing, writing clearer sentences, knowing how to use synonyms and cohesive devices, using correct keywords, how to give opinions, suggestions and write a paragraph. These findings highlight the importance of understanding how technologies like ChatGPT can be integrated effectively into educational settings. The study concludes that ChatGPT proves to be a valuable tool for students in enhancing various research skills, from idea generation to writing refinement. Its use not only supports academic tasks but also helps improve language proficiency and critical thinking throughout the research process.

Keywords: ChatGPT; language skills; research tool; postgraduate students; research

DOI: http://doi.org/10.17576/3L-2026-3201-12

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