Humanities and Arts

Generative AI as Writing or Speaking Partners in L2 Learning: Implications for Learning-Oriented Assessments


  Peer Reviewed

Abstract

The advent of generative AI (GenAI) technology has impacted second language (L2) learning and assessment, offering new opportunities for learners to practice and improve their skills. One approach gaining interest is employing GenAI tools as writing or speaking partners to provide personalized, real-time feedback and assistance to learners. These interactions allow learners to practice their writing and speaking skills while receiving assessment information on various aspects of language, including grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Considering the potential of GenAI tools to enrich assessment and learning experiences, it is worth examining recent research on the use of this technology for this purpose.  This paper reviews the literature on the use of GenAI as writing and speaking partners through the lens of the Learning-Oriented Assessment (LOA) framework (Purpura, 2024; Turner & Purpura, 2016) to explore how assessment data from GenAI tools could be leveraged to further learning. 

Key Questions

What is Generative AI in language learning?

Generative AI (GenAI) tools are advanced technologies like ChatGPT that assist L2 learners by generating real-time feedback on writing, speaking, and other language tasks.

How does GenAI support second language (L2) learning?

GenAI tools serve as writing and speaking partners, providing personalized feedback on grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and overall language proficiency.

What is the Learning-Oriented Assessment (LOA) framework?

The LOA framework evaluates the educational value of assessments, focusing on how tools like GenAI contribute to learning across dimensions such as proficiency, elicitation, and affective engagement.

What are the benefits of AI-mediated interactive speaking activities?

These activities enhance speaking skills, reduce anxiety, and encourage willingness to communicate by providing a low-pressure, personalized practice environment.

How can AI tools improve writing performance?

AI tools offer detailed, immediate feedback that helps learners refine their writing through iterative processes, combining AI assistance with teacher-led guidance for optimal results.