Page 32 - ELG2503 March Issue 493

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COMMENT

Adapting speaking AI

AI is transforming how the next generation achieves English speaking
proficiency. App developer and ex-teacher, Matt Sussman explains

how education has changed.

rtificial intelligence is all over
the news, and it’s especially
making waves in education.
ABut here’s a reality check: 85% of
teachers haven’t even touched generative
AI tools, according to the On EdTech
Newsletter.
Even so, there’s one area quietly
undergoing a profound transformation due to
AI: language learning, especially for refining
English speaking skills. Compared to previous
generations like mine, today’s learners are
experiencing a monumental change in the
learning process.
No longer held back by barriers of
opportunity, cost, or geography, English
language learners are now empowered
to achieve proficiency, unlocking global
academic and career opportunities. After
three decades working in international
education and now as the CEO and
Co-Founder of an English language learning
platform, I see AI having a profound impact
on expanding and improving education
around the world.
In this first phase of adapting AI to
education, the most exciting application
is as a tool for speaking improvement—
the holy grail of the language learning
process.
As every teacher knows, textbooks,
vocabulary lists, and videos cannot teach
students to speak confidently. AI, on the
other hand, can interact with learners, online classes with tutors, and increasingly of AI-powered speaking practice apps
providing the kind of dynamic practice that supplement this with AI-powered speaking like FLOW Speak, Speak, ELSA Speak,
was once only possible through real-life practice tools. BoldVoice and Loora.
conversations or living abroad. Now, anyone with a phone can access Because learners no longer need to travel
unlimited speaking practice. There is clear overseas to immerse themselves in English,
The language learning transformation evidence that learners crave this: millions of the cost is significantly lower and accessibility
I first started learning Spanish in the 1980s people have downloaded the first generation is much higher.
and Japanese in the 1990s. Back then,
the way we learned was by buying books, Language learning process: then and now
taking classes, completing reading, writing,
and listening homework, and only had Older Generations New Generation
the chance to speak when we travelled or Heavy on receptive skill More focus on productive skill
lived abroad. In other words, the last mile development development
of the learning process—reaching speaking
proficiency—required significant time, • Buying lots of books • Download lots of apps
money, and physical relocation. This put
speaking proficiency out of reach of many • Reading, writing, and listening • Watch YouTube, Netflix,
learners of modest means. The way my Tools homework Instagram
generation learned languages is now ancient
history. Languages (CEFR). • Taking classes, sometimes for • Online classes, with a private
When I speak with English learners now, years! tutor
their approach seems entirely different,
and frankly, better. They download Method to Reach • Travel or live abroad • Daily immersion with an AI
numerous apps, watch endless videos on Fluency Speaking tool
YouTube, Netflix, and Instagram, take
32 March 2025