The Use of ChatGPT AI Audio in Mastering Arabic Speaking Skills at the Beginner Level

Abstract

Mastering speaking skills in Arabic is a major challenge among students in Malaysia, as traditional teaching approaches emphasize grammar and translation more than oral communication. This study evaluates the impact of using ChatGPT AI Audio in enhancing students’ speaking skills through interactive conversation practice, pronunciation correction, and grammar feedback. A total of 60 public university students were selected as respondents, using a mixed-methods design involving quantitative questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and written reflections. Descriptive analysis showed a high level of acceptance with an overall mean score of 4.12, while the speaking confidence item recorded the highest average (M=4.35). Thematic analysis identified five main themes: increased confidence, phonetic awareness, technical constraints, cultural sensitivity, and dependence on AI. The findings indicate that ChatGPT AI Audio can serve as an effective support tool to enhance students’ confidence, fluency, and phonetic awareness, although it remains limited by digital infrastructure issues and cultural understanding constraints. This study recommends the gradual integration of AI into Arabic language pedagogy as a complement to traditional methods.