THE IMPACT OF CHATGPT-ASSISTED SPEAKING PRACTICE ON SPEAKING CONFIDENCE AMONG UZBEK EFL UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This article examines the use of AI, particularly ChatGPT which is the most well-known AI tool. The study shows the effect of using one-to-one speaking function of ChatGPT on improving speaking level of English learners. Using opinions of a number of Uzbek students, the author demonstrates the effect that AI-assisted speaking has on various English learners. English learners of different levels reacted similar to the use of AI-assisted speaking practice. The findings indicated that, while AI can be a good speaking partner as the speech it provides is quite fluent, it lacks clearness and reliability. In order to use ChatGPT effectively to improve English speaking skills, a student should give the correct command, control the practicing process and do not fully rely on the feedback of ChatGPT. The results highlight that AI-based feedback on speaking practice cannot be trusted fully, a student should always ask for constructive feedback for their speech from English teachers with high level of speaking in English.