An Exploration into Dyslexic EFL Learners’ Reading Comprehension through AI Tools

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of English, Razi university

2 Department if English, Tehran University

3 Razi University

Abstract

This study investigates the efficacy of Speechify, an AI voice assistant, in aiding reading comprehension among adult EFL learners with dyslexia. Using a qualitative research design, this study explored how Speechify influenced perceived reading comprehension, reduced anxiety, and increased motivation over the course of 12 sessions of a reading workshop involving 16 dyslexic EFL learners. The validated Adult Dyslexia Checklist was used to identify participants with moderate-to-severe dyslexic profiles.  The semi-structured interviews provided qualitative data and thematic analysis was used to code, organize and identify the themes. The results indicated that the use of Speechify auditory support generally improved dyslexic learners' EFL reading comprehension. The key themes that emerged included the impact of multimodality on student learning and teacher confidence, exploration of identity and agency, and the need for more personalized learning experiences. Findings suggest that AI tools can lower affective filters that complicate language learning for neurodivergent learners, although objective literacy gains were not assessed. The findings suggest that Speechify can be a disruptive, compensatory AI tool in education for those with language-learning difficulties.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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