Beyond Voice Recognition: Integrating Alexa’s Emotional Intelligence and ChatGPT’s Language Processing for EFL Learners’ Development and Anxiety Reduction - A Comparative Analysis

This groundbreaking study investigates the integration of Amazon Alexa, an emotionally intelligent AI platform, into English language teaching through an adaptive language learning system. Using a mixed-methods design, the study examined the impact of this innovative platform on the speaking skills of 40 high school students (aged 16–18) from Varamin County, Iran. The experimental group (n = 20) engaged with Amazon Alexa's emotionally intelligent platform, which provides AI-driven real-time feedback based on emotional intelligence (EI); in contrast, the control group (n = 20) received instruction using ChatGPT-3.5 over eight sessions following a pre-test to ensure group homogeneity. The study employed a concurrent mixed methods design, with quantitative data collected using the researcher-developed Speaking Assessment System and the researcher-developed Perception Questionnaire; qualitative data were derived from researcher-developed classroom observation checklists and researcher-developed semi-structured interviews (n = 15), focusing on emotional state monitoring and anxiety reduction patterns. Statistical analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between Alexa's EI-based instruction and speaking performance (p < 0.05, η2 = 0.42), with the experimental group showing significantly improved performance (F(1,38) = 24.63, p < 0.05). Amazon Alexa's emotional state detection capabilities demonstrated 94% accuracy in identifying and responding to learners' emotional states. This study represents a paradigm shift in language learning technology, leveraging Amazon Alexa's emotionally intelligent platform to address cognitive and emotional aspects of language acquisition simultaneously. The findings have significant implications for the global language learning market, particularly in addressing speaking anxiety and emotional barriers to language learning. The platform's scalability and cross-cultural applicability make it a potentially transformative solution for language learning worldwide, opening up new avenues for the development of emotionally intelligent educational technology.