Siri-Ously Speaking: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Is Giving Students a Voice in English Classrooms

Voice chatbots powered by Artificial Intelligence have been shown to significantly improve university students' oral reading fluency, highlighting AI's potential in spoken language learning (Mingyan et al., 2025).Building on this understanding, the present study investigates the impact of AI tools on English speaking abilities among students at HCMC University of Foreign Languages -Information Technology (HUFLIT) in Vietnam.Despite the widespread use of AI tools, comprehensive research on their impact on speaking skills is still limited.To address this gap, a mixed-method approach was used.A quantitative survey was conducted with 60-70 EFL students at HUFLIT, where participants completed an online questionnaire to evaluate their usage habits, perceived improvements, and concerns about AI-assisted speaking practice.Additionally, qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 10 participants selected from the survey group.These interviews explored students' personal experiences, shifts in motivation and confidence, and views on the educational value of AI tools.Survey data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically coded to identify common perceptions and challenges.The findings reveal that AI tools provide real-time feedback, enhance learner independence, and improve oral proficiency.However, students also identified drawbacks such as exposure to misinformation, reduced critical thinking, and over-reliance on AI.The study underscores the importance of students using AI as a support, not a replacement, and actively verifying content.The results suggest that, when used intentionally, AI can facilitate independent, critical, and self-directed speaking practice in English classrooms.