AI-Assisted Language Learning and Enhancement of Speaking Skills among Undergraduate Students

Abstract

The rapid developments in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) have greatly impacted the teaching of the English language, especially when it comes to the speaking skills of undergraduate audiences. In the context of ESL teaching in the Indian setting, English is an obligatory academic subject as well as an important career requirement, and yet the students often struggle with speaking English. The study focuses on the functionality and effectiveness of using AI-powered language learning tools in improving the speaking abilities of undergraduate students, particularly in terms of fluency, pronunciation, and speaking confidence. Using a mixed-method research design, the study included sixty undergraduate students, both in the control group and the experimental group, for an eight-week duration. In the study, the control group undertakes speaking activities using the conventional method, while the experimental group applies speaking activities using speech recognition technology, chatbots, and pronunciation applications. This can be supported by quantitative data, which shows that AI implementation has helped improve speaking fluency and pronunciation accuracy amongst undergraduate students. The conclusion can be drawn that when AI tools are strategically employed together with tutor intervention, learners can benefit from learner-centric, low-anxiety environments that promote their oral skills. Also, it can be concluded that anxiety levels and self-confidence amongst learners can significantly improve when AI-supported environments are employed.