Research Article
Generative AI and Oral Proficiency: How ChatGPT Is Transforming English Language Speaking Practice
Mohammad Mousazadeh*
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
13-18
Received:
22 June 2026
Accepted:
3 July 2026
Published:
28 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijetl.20260402.11
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Abstract: The integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) into language learning contexts presents potential for developing oral proficiency, though empirical evidence regarding its efficacy remains limited. This quasi-experimental study investigated the impact of ChatGPT-mediated speaking practice on English oral proficiency among Iranian learners. A total of 380 participants (190 female, 190 male; Mage = 21.4, SD = 4.7) from Tehran and Isfahan were assigned to experimental (ChatGPT practice; n = 190) or control (human pair work; n = 190) groups. Both groups completed an 8-week intervention with three 30-minute weekly sessions. Oral proficiency was assessed using a Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)-aligned Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) scored on fluency, pronunciation, lexical resource, grammatical accuracy, and interactive communication (total score: 0–20). Multilevel growth modeling revealed a significant time × group interaction, F(1, 376) = 48.73, p < .001, partial η2 = .115. The experimental group demonstrated greater gains (MΔ = 2.90, SD = 1.60) than controls (MΔ = 0.75, SD = 1.80), d = 1.20, 95% CI [0.95, 1.45]. Gender moderated this effect, with females in the experimental group showing the largest improvements (MΔ = 2.50). Mediation analysis confirmed that increased integrative motivation partially mediated proficiency gains (indirect effect = 0.28, 95% CI [0.20, 0.36]). Findings indicate that structured ChatGPT practice yields modest but meaningful enhancements in oral proficiency, particularly when leveraging affective factors. Implications for AI-augmented speaking pedagogy in resource-constrained contexts are discussed.
Abstract: The integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) into language learning contexts presents potential for developing oral proficiency, though empirical evidence regarding its efficacy remains limited. This quasi-experimental study investigated the impact of ChatGPT-mediated speaking practice on English oral proficiency among Iranian lear...
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