Evaluating the Impact of AI Tools on Language Proficiency and Intercultural Communication in Second Language Education

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of AI-driven tools, including Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and ChatGPT, on enhancing language proficiency and intercultural communication in educational settings. Through a mixed-methods approach involving 200 participants, significant improvements in language skills and cultural understanding were observed, with students responding more positively to these tools than educators. The results underscore the effectiveness of AI in delivering personalized learning experiences and facilitating real-world conversational practice. However, the study also highlights the necessity of integrating AI tools thoughtfully into curricula, accompanied by continuous teacher training. Ethical considerations, such as data privacy, AI bias, and equitable access, are discussed, with recommendations to ensure these technologies promote inclusive and equitable educational practices. The paper concludes with a call for future research to explore the long-term impacts of AI on language learning and intercultural competence.