Integrated AI chatbot practice: A pathway to improved ESL speaking skills
Melissa Özlem Grab
Abstract
This study looks at the application of AI chatbots in enhancing speaking skills for ESL undergraduate students from different cultures background. It seeks to evaluate the effects of sustained AI chatbot use on fluency, pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and speaking confidence. 120 students (60 male, 60 female) from different nations were selected and half of them randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 60) who practiced with AI chatbots. Unlike conventional ESL instruction, these participants were exposed to AI technology. During the twelve-week intervention, the experimental group outperformed the control group in all areas tested. Qualitative results provided evidence for the success of the feedback provided, reduction of anxiety, and therefore confirmed the pilot study. This research provides evidence for the use of AI chatbots in ESL curricula to improve speaking skills. This research offers empirical proof for the use of AI chatbots in ESL instruction to foster the speaking capacity of students. The findings show that tools driven by AI can be effective additions to traditional language education, leading to improved learning outcomes.