IDEAS EMPRENDEDORAS (71) – How AI is Revolutionizing Language Assessment

As artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming all the fields, yet there is a opportunity in languages  by offering objective and data-driven evaluations. In high-stakes English language exams like the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), AI is already playing a significant role in assessing pronunciation, fluency, and clarity.

AI in IELTS Speaking Test: A Game Changer

One of the most significant innovations in recent years is the incorporation of AI into the IELTS speaking test, particularly in the IELTS Indicator (online version).

• How does it work? AI first analyzes the speech samples of test-takers before a human examiner reviews the responses. The AI engine evaluates parameters such as clarity, fluency, pronunciation, and accent neutrality, reducing the risk of examiner bias.

• Why is this important? In traditional exams, human evaluators might unconsciously favor certain accents over others or misjudge a candidate’s ability due to unfamiliarity with their speech patterns. AI provides a more standardized and fair initial assessment.

• Speech Recognition and AI Tools: IELTS uses advanced speech recognition technology similar to Google Speech-to-Text and ETS SpeechRater®, which analyze phonemes, speech rhythm, and articulation.

While IELTS has yet to fully implement AI-based scoring in its Speaking section, these technological advancements indicate a future where AI could play a larger role in assessing spoken language skills.

AI in TOEFL iBT Speaking Section

SpeechRater®: AI-Based Speaking Assessment

Unlike IELTS, TOEFL iBT® already integrates AI into its Speaking Section through SpeechRater®, a proprietary AI tool developed by ETS (Educational Testing Service).

SpeechRater® evaluates:

• Pronunciation – Comparing speech patterns to native speaker models.
• Fluency – Measuring speed, pauses, and hesitations.
• Grammar & Vocabulary – Identifying linguistic accuracy and range.
• Intonation & Rhythm – Analyzing speech melody and stress patterns.

This AI system provides an initial assessment, which is then cross-checked by human raters to ensure fairness and accuracy. By combining AI and human evaluation, TOEFL reduces examiner bias while maintaining a comprehensive scoring process.

AI-Powered Language Learning Tools

Beyond standardized testing, AI is revolutionizing language learning with tools designed to improve pronunciation and fluency. Some of the most effective AI-driven platforms include:

• Speechace – Uses AI-powered speech recognition to analyze pronunciation, fluency, and accuracy in real time. (speechace.com)

• My Speaking Score – Offers AI-based feedback using SpeechRater®, providing detailed reports for TOEFL practice. (myspeakingscore.com)

• ELSA Speak – Uses deep learning to help non-native speakers improve pronunciation and fluency through interactive lessons.

These tools enable test-takers to refine their speaking skills before attempting high-stakes exams like IELTS and TOEFL.

Could AI Enhance  Language Testing?

Given the success of AI-based evaluations in English proficiency tests, the application of AI in language proficiency exams, could be a revolutionary step forward. Here’s how:

1. Objective Pronunciation Assessment

   • AI could detect and provide real-time feedback on tone accuracy, helping learners correct errors.

2. Fluency and Clarity Measurement

   • AI could assess sentence structure, speech flow, and clarity in a more data-driven way, eliminating biases against non-native speakers who may have regional accents.

3. Accent Recognition and Adaptation

   • Some learners acquire accents influenced by their native languages. AI could compare their pronunciation against standardized models and provide personalized suggestions for improvement.

4. Reducing Examiner Workload

   • Just as AI has streamlined English tests, it could enhance language testing by pre-evaluating responses and allowing human examiners to focus on higher-level linguistic analysis.

Conclusion

AI is reshaping the evaluation of speaking proficiency in major language exams. While IELTS still relies on human examiners for Speaking, AI is playing an increasing role in test monitoring and pronunciation analysis. On the other hand, TOEFL iBT has already incorporated AI into its Speaking Section through SpeechRater®, offering an advanced and data-driven approach to assessment. As AI technology evolves, we can expect more standardized tests to integrate machine learning tools to enhance fairness, accuracy, and efficiency in evaluating spoken language skills.

© Image. https://www.speechace.com/

@Yolanda Muriel Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)