Perceptions of Novice Learners toward the Use of AI in Developing Speaking Skill
Keywords:
Artificial Intelligent, speaking skills, novice learnersAbstract
This study explored the perceptions of novice university students toward the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in developing English speaking skills. This qualitative study aims to investigate how novice learners perceive the role of AI in supporting their English speaking practice. The participants of this study were 10 novice learners of English Education Study Program who were determined by purposive sampling among 22 students who enrolled the Speaking for Informal Interaction Course. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews which were then analyzed by identifying themes related to learners’ perceptions of AI integration in speaking activities. The findings showed that in general the learners had positive view toward the use of AI in enhancing their speaking skills. They reported that AI tools provided opportunities for more frequent speaking practice, immediate feedback on pronunciation, and greater confidence in expressing their ideas. However, there are challenges noted, such as limited interaction quality compared to human communication. Overall, this study indicated that the integration of AI in speaking activities can support novice English learners in improving their speaking competence, confidence and engagement.
References
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Qualitative Research in Psychology Using thematic analysis in psychology Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. http://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?journalCode=uqrp20%5Cnhttp://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?journalCode=uqrp20
Brown, H. D. (2007). Principle of Language Learning and Teaching (5th ed.). Pearson Education. https://doi.org/10.1017/cbo9781139062398.015
Chiu, T. K. F. (2021). Digital support for student engagement in blended learning based on self-determination theory. Computers in Human Behavior, 124(June), 106909. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2021.106909
Du, J., & Daniel, B. K. (2024). Transforming language education: A systematic review of AI-powered chatbots for English as a foreign language speaking practice. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 6(January), 100230. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2024.100230
Ebadi, S., Velayati, S., Ramezanzadeh, A., & Rawdhan Salman, A. (2025). Exploring the impact of AI-powered speaking tasks on EFL learners’ speaking performance and anxiety: An activity theory study. Acta Psychologica, 259(August), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105391
Ellis, R. (2009). Corrective Feedback and Teacher Development. L2 Journal, 1(1), 2–18. https://doi.org/10.5070/l2.v1i1.9054
Ericsson, E., & Johansson, S. (2023). English speaking practice with conversational AI: Lower secondary students’ educational experiences over time. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 5(September), 100164. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2023.100164
Godwin-Jones, R. (2021). Evolving technologies for language learning. Language Learning & Technology, 25(3), 6–26. http://hdl.handle.net/10125/73443
Grab, M. Ö. (2025). Integrated AI chatbot practice: A pathway to improved ESL speaking skills. Social Sciences and Humanities Open, 12(August). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssaho.2025.101933
Harmer, J. (2007). The Practice of Engliah Language Teaching. Pearson Longman. https://doi.org/10.2307/1179695
Huang, Y. (2022). Task Design of Task-Based Language Teaching in College English–A Case Study on Criticism: Don’t Take It Personally. Journal of Contemporary Educational Research. http://ojs.bbwpublisher.com/index.php/JCER/article/view/3258
Luoma, S. (2004). Assessing Speaking (First Edit). Cambridge University Press.
Mohammadkarimi, E. (2024). Exploring the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Promoting English Language Pronunciation Skills. LLT Journal: Journal on Language and Language Teaching, 27(1), 98–115. https://doi.org/10.24071/llt.v27i1.8151
Nunan, D. (1991). Language teaching methodology: a textbook for teachers. Prentice Hall.
Richards, J. C. (2015). Key Issues in Language Teaching. Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781420054590.ch21
Thornbury, S. (2005). How to Teach Speaking. Longman.
Zawacki-Richter, O., Marín, V. I., Bond, M., & Gouverneur, F. (2019). Systematic review of research on artificial intelligence applications in higher education – where are the educators? International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-019-0171-0
