AI-Based Language Tools for Engineering Students: Rural Perspectives

Abstract

In Industry 5.0, English proficiency is integral to global employability and collaboration, particularly for engineering graduates in rural India. Hence, this study analyzes the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) based language tools on improving students' spoken English fluency at Arifa Institute of Technology, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu. The study follows a quasi-experimental design with 90 students in two groups (Control and Experimental). Students in the experimental group engaged in 8-weeks of talking with three AI language tools (ChatGPT, ELSA Speak, Replika, and Duolingo) in their own time. The study's outcomes demonstrated a significant increase in fluency, pronunciation, and confidence, which endorses the usefulness of AI tools as an interactive and scaleable low-anxiety learning environment. The study recommends the integration of AI technologies into the language curriculum in rural settings, in particular rural developing contexts, with targeted teacher training and investment in digital infrastructure to equip graduates with communication skills in preparation for a knowledge-based economy.