AI and EAL/D refers to the use of artificial intelligence tools to support accessibility and inclusion for learners of English as an Additional Language or Dialect. This can include technologies such as real-time translation, speech-to-text, grammar and vocabulary support, personalised learning platforms, and adaptive communication tools.

When designed and applied ethically, AI has the potential to reduce language barriers, build confidence, and enhance participation in education, work, and community life.

At the same time, there are risks and considerations, including bias, cultural misrepresentation, privacy concerns, over-reliance on technology, and the need to ensure tools are co-designed with educators, learners, and communities.

AI and EAL/D refers to the use of artificial intelligence tools to support accessibility and inclusion for learners of English as an Additional Language or Dialect. According to Cummins (2000), EAL learners are those who “are acquiring English in addition to their home language and may require support to participate fully in academic and social activities” (p. 59). Similarly, Leung (2022) defines EAL as a professional discipline that addresses the linguistic, cognitive, and social needs of learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds within English-speaking education systems. This includes students who are bilingual or multilingual and those at different stages of English acquisition, highlighting the need for instructional strategies that both support and celebrate their linguistic repertoires (Gibbons, 2015).

When designed and applied ethically, AI has the potential to reduce language barriers, build confidence, and enhance participation in education, work, and community life.

EAL/D learners are a diverse group, including:

• Students whose first language or dialect is not English, both overseas-born and Australian-born.

• Bilingual or multilingual learners at various stages of English acquisition.

• Students from immigrant, refugee, and temporary visa backgrounds.

• Children of English-speaking families returning from abroad.

• Students whose first languages include Indigenous languages or related varieties.

• Children of Deaf adults who use sign language.

• International students, as well as learners who may also be gifted or have disabilities.

At the same time, there are risks and considerations, including bias, cultural misrepresentation, privacy concerns, over-reliance on technology, and the need to ensure tools are co-designed with educators, learners, and communities.

See reference article section for sources

Learners frequently encounter difficulties with English pronunciation, which may arise from factors such as the influence of their first language, their level of phonological awareness, the amount of practice they engage in, the nature of their interlocutors, and the instructional methods employed. Artificial intelligence (AI) holds significant potential to support EAL/D learners by making English learning more accessible, personalized, and engaging. Tools such as real-time transcription, translation, and captioning can help bridge immediate communication gaps. In addition, generative AI and conversational chatbots provide low-stakes opportunities for speaking and listening practice, thereby fostering confidence and fluency. AI technologies can also adapt to individual proficiency levels, offering tailored learning pathways that address both conversational and academic English. Nevertheless, research emphasizes the importance of critically integrating AI to prevent over-reliance, ensure cultural and linguistic relevance, and balance AI support with authentic human interaction and teacher guidance.

Sourced from the research articles below.

Promotion of Inclusion

AI can provide equitable learning opportunities by offering resources and support that might not be available in traditional classroom settings, thus promoting inclusion for all learners.

Personalized Learning Paths

AI-driven platforms can tailor speaking exercises to individual learner profiles, adjusting difficulty levels and providing targeted practice based on real-time performance data. This personalization fosters a more effective and engaging learning experience.

Real-Time Pronunciation Feedback

Advanced speech recognition technologies offer immediate corrective feedback on pronunciation, intonation, and fluency. Such instant responses enable learners to self-correct and refine their speaking abilities autonomously.

Enhanced Learner Engagement

Interactive AI applications, including gamified speaking tasks and virtual conversation partners, can increase learner motivation and participation. These engaging tools make the process of improving speaking skills more enjoyable and less intimidating.

Support for Multilingual Learners

AI tools can assist in translating and interpreting, helping multilingual EAL learners understand complex texts and instructions, thereby supporting their speaking development.

Sourced from the research articles below.

Mastering pronunciation is essential for effective communication in a second language, yet learning to pronounce words accurately often presents challenges that require targeted instruction. Recent research emphasizes the growing role of technology in addressing these challenges, with tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Computer-Assisted Pronunciation Training (CAPT) shown to improve learners’ pronunciation accuracy and overall spoken proficiency, particularly in areas like vowel sounds and general speech performance. These advances highlight the benefits of integrating digital tools into language education.

However, the effectiveness of technology-assisted pronunciation training depends on several factors. Learner motivation, engagement, personal preferences, and individual differences significantly influence outcomes. Programs that offer personalized feedback and adaptive learning experiences are particularly effective in meeting diverse learner needs.

Practical Tips for Learners

• Start with short daily practice sessions (5–10 minutes).

• Focus on problematic sounds or words first.

• Record your voice and compare it to native speakers.

• Combine multiple tools (Forvo + Google + LingQ) for varied practice.

• Track your improvement over time to stay motivated.

Ways to Use These Tools Effectively

• Daily practice sessions: Record and listen to your speech, compare it to native speakers, and focus on areas flagged for improvement.

• Target specific sounds or words: Use AI feedback to identify challenging vowels, consonants, or intonation patterns and practice them repeatedly.

• Fluency exercises: Engage in short dialogues, story reading, or role-plays with AI guidance to develop natural rhythm and stress.

• Track your progress: Use app features to monitor improvement over time and adjust practice based on AI recommendations.

Conclusion

AI pronunciation tools give learners the ability to practice anytime, anywhere, and receive instant feedback on their speaking skills.

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