VIETTESOL INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION 2025

One well-documented barrier to language learners’ speaking performance is anxiety—a daunting experience that must be navigated. Accordingly, initiatives have been undertaken to resolve the problem with the aim of improving students’ confidence and reducing their anxiety levels. With the rapid integration of AI into teaching, the conventional methods namely increasing speaking opportunities and creating a supportive environment has been transformed to become more engaging and, hopefully, more effective. In line with this notion, this study seeks to investigate students' perceptions following their exposure to AI chatbot-guided support, specifically to gather feedback regarding their foreign language anxiety (FLA). Eight participants took part in this study, with a qualitative approach to have their thoughts collected via regular in-depth interviews. Findings from thematic analysis show that although students have acknowledged the importance of familiarity and enhanced frequency in using the tool to improve their confidence, factors regarding limited vocabulary, unfamiliar topics, speed, fear of making mistakes, technical issues and privacy concerns could influence their anxiety levels during conversations with AI technologies. The findings of the present study make a significant contribution to the ongoing scholarly discourse on artificial intelligence and personalized learning, helping educators gain insights into the psychology of learners.