Reducing Anxiety and Enhancing Motivation: Gemini AI Voice Chat for ESL Speaking Practice in Bangladesh

Abstract

The development of English language skills by Second Language students becomes difficult when they experience speaking anxiety especially during situations with limited interaction time with native speakers. An investigation into the productivity of Gemini AI voice chat as a speaking practice method for starting ESL students at educational institutions in Bangladesh was conducted. A research project using action methodology enabled 25 second-year Department of English Language and Literature students at Premier University Chattogram to work with Gemini AI for four weeks and conduct interviews to extract participant perceptions. Participants indicated through testing that AI-enabled practice made them feel more comfortable than working with human peers as 92.3% of users favored AI over peers while 97.4% showed lower anxiety toward mistakes. Most students (87.2%) found the AI system gave them beneficial feedback about pronunciation and grammar while all participants (97.4%) valued the system for practice accessibility. The research showed that participants experienced increased confidence for speaking after working with AI technology as opposed to using traditional teaching methods (82.1%). Through the application of Self-Determination Theory and Socio-Cultural Theory the research revealed that the non-critical environment of AI met learners' basic emotional needs forcompetence and autonomy as well as supplied necessary guidance within their learning development zone. AI voice technology shows promise in removing psychological obstacles for speaking practice according to the research which presents practical integration ideas for ESL pedagogy.