Frontiers | Simulating the “cultural other”: the impact of GenAI interlocutors on EFL learners’ intercultural communicative competence, speaking anxiety, and learning engagement

March 30, 2026 - 13:23

A groundbreaking study is exploring how conversations with Generative AI can reshape the experience of learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Moving beyond traditional peer role-play, researchers are investigating the impact of AI interlocutors on critical areas: intercultural communicative competence, speaking anxiety, and overall student engagement.

The research addresses a common classroom challenge. While practicing with peers is valuable, it can sometimes feel artificial and fail to adequately prepare learners for real-world interactions with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Generative AI, however, offers a novel solution by simulating conversations with a "cultural other"—a customizable digital partner that can embody different communication styles and perspectives.

Early findings suggest significant potential. By providing a low-stakes, private environment for practice, interactions with AI appear to reduce learners' speaking anxiety, a major barrier to fluency. Students report feeling more comfortable making mistakes and experimenting with language without the fear of judgment from human peers. This safe space encourages more frequent and prolonged engagement, directly boosting their willingness to practice.

Furthermore, when programmed with specific cultural parameters, these AI chatbots offer learners consistent exposure to varied communicative norms. This repeated, tailored practice is shown to enhance learners' intercultural communicative competence—their ability to navigate and bridge cultural differences effectively during conversation. The study positions GenAI not as a replacement for human interaction, but as a powerful, scalable preparatory tool that can build confidence and foundational skills, ultimately leading to more successful and meaningful real-world communication.