Exploring the Role of ChatGPT Voice Mode in Reducing Foreign Language Speaking Anxiety Among Indonesian ESP Students

Background/purpose. Foreign language speaking anxiety poses a persistent challenge for Indonesian ESP students in hospitality programs. Traditional classroom settings often exacerbate this anxiety, limiting students' confidence and speaking fluency. This study investigates how ChatGPT's Voice Conversation Mode can create a low-pressure environment for practicing English-speaking skills, exploring students' perceptions and the technology's impact on their speaking anxiety.

Materials/methods. A qualitative research design was adopted, involving 15 undergraduate students from an English for Hotel course. Data were collected through 15 semi-structured interviews (approx. 12,000 words) and 83 reflection papers. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key patterns related to students’ experiences, perceptions, and emotional responses when using ChatGPT Voice Mode for speaking practice.

Results. The findings indicate that ChatGPT Voice Mode provides a “safe space” for speaking, reducing fear of judgment and lowering speaking anxiety. Students appreciated the flexibility of self-paced, private practice sessions that allowed for repeated attempts without social pressure. Themes such as emotional comfort, improved fluency through repetition, and ease of use emerged prominently. However, students also acknowledged limitations, including lack of emotional feedback and the “robotic” nature of AI interactions.

Conclusion. ChatGPT Voice Mode is an effective supplementary tool for reducing foreign-language speaking anxiety and fostering speaking confidence in ESP contexts. While it cannot substitute human interaction, its role in creating a non-judgmental practice environment holds valuable pedagogical implications.

Keywords: ChatGPT Voice Mode, Foreign Language Speaking Anxiety, English for Specific Purpose, Hospitality English

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