Artificial Intelligence and EFL Learners’ Speaking Proficiency: A Review of Innovations and Challenges

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction has created new opportunities for improving learners’ speaking proficiency. AI-based tools such as chatbots, speech recognition systems, and virtual conversational agents provide learners with interactive speaking practice, immediate feedback, and low-anxiety learning environments. This review paper examines the role of AI on EFL learners’ speaking proficiency by analyzing studies published between ۲۰۲۲ and ۲۰۲۶. The findings reveal that most studies report positive role of AI on pronunciation, fluency, learner engagement, confidence, and willingness to communicate. AI technologies also promote learner autonomy through flexible and personalized speaking practice. However, the literature also highlights several challenges, including concerns about the contextual accuracy of AI-generated feedback, technological accessibility, and the continued importance of teacher guidance and human interaction. Overall, the review suggests that AI can effectively support EFL speaking development when appropriately integrated into language learning contexts.

کلیدواژه ها:

Artificial Intelligence ، EFL learners ، speaking proficiency