DEVELOPING ENGLISH SPEAKING SKILLS THROUGH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGIES IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into foreign language pedagogy represents a paradigm shift, particularly in developing speaking competencies. This article examines the efficacy of AI-driven tools – encompassing intelligent tutoring systems, conversational agents, and automated speech recognition – in facilitating English speaking skills. It posits that AI can provide scalable, personalized, and psychologically safe environments for authentic oral practice, addressing traditional classroom limitations. The analysis is contextualized within global pedagogical trends and national educational strategies, with specific reference to the Republic of Uzbekistan’s digital education reforms. Drawing upon linguistic theories, and incorporating empirical data, the article argues for a complementary, hybrid model where AI augments human instruction to foster communicative competence.