Speakers
Description
This study aims to examine the students' perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance speaking abilities in transnational higher education (TNE) programs in Vietnam. The participants consisted of thirty English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students who were enrolled in three Transnational Education (TNE) programs at a public institution in Vietnam. The study employed a qualitative research design, including diaries and individual interviews, to achieve its objectives. Thematic analysis was implemented to discover the emerged themes in the written diaries. Subsequently, individual interviews were conducted with chosen students based on the identified themes. The data analysis revealed that Vietnamese students in the TNE program displayed a preference for utilizing AI tools to enhance their speaking skills due to the absence of teacher feedback. They were generally satisfied with using these AI technologies to practice their English. Nevertheless, the results also indicated that students encountered certain constraints when utilizing AI aids, including a lack of applicable feedback and few model examples. Furthermore, the participants have the perception that artificial intelligence is incapable of replacing teachers. Finally, the findings indicated a need to improve the available resources in AI products to facilitate the enhancement of students' speaking abilities within the TNE context.
