AI-Based Conversational Tools and their Impact on Italian EFL learners' Speaking Fluency and Confidence: A study based on a questionnaire

This study investigates the impact of AI-based speaking practice on the fluency and confidence of learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Based on the most current advancements in applied linguistics and second language acquisition (SLA), the research investigates the role of voice interaction with ChatGPT and ELSA Speak as digital adjuncts to the classroom in facilitating the self-directed oral production of learners. This research takes a quantitative approach and is in the form of a survey, employing self-administered online questionnaires to EFL learners in the research sample. The survey inquired about learners’ AI usage patterns, the mental AI-augmented speaking practice, and self-rated speaking fluency and confidence levels. Results demonstrate that AI speaking practice is a valuable addition to formal instruction. Many learners showed improvements to fluency and oral performance anxiety as well as self-confidence. Still, technological barriers and the need to integrate AI speaking with pedagogy were among the negative outcomes of the study. This paper adds to the growing gap in research about the use of technology for language instruction, particularly wishing to advocate the use of AI for practicing speaking to improve oral proficiency and learner confidence.