AI-POWERED PRONUNCIATION TOOLS FOR IMPROVING SPEAKING ACCURACY AND CONFIDENCE OF EFL LEARNERS

Abstract

This article examines the role of AI-powered pronunciation tools in improving speaking accuracy and confidence among EFL learners. Pronunciation is an essential part of successful communication, yet many learners experience difficulties with sounds, word stress, sentence rhythm, intonation, and fluency. In traditional classrooms, teachers may not always have enough time to provide individual pronunciation feedback to every student. AI-powered tools, including speech recognition applications, pronunciation analysis platforms, and interactive speaking assistants, can provide learners with additional opportunities for practice and immediate feedback. This article discusses how such tools can help learners notice pronunciation errors, practise repeatedly, improve intelligibility, and become more confident speakers. The study argues that AI pronunciation tools should not replace teacher instruction, but they can support classroom learning when used with clear pedagogical guidance. The findings suggest that AI-assisted pronunciation practice can make speaking lessons more personalized, interactive, and learner-centered.