IA como aliada. Un análisis del comportamiento de ChatGPT en relación con la ansiedad ante el aprendizaje de lenguas extranjeras

Sammanfattning

This study examines the extent to which the conversational AI tool ChatGPT displays interactional features that the literature on Foreign Language Anxiety (FLA) associates with a less anxiety-inducing environment for oral practice in Spanish as a foreign language (ELE). Using a qualitative approach, six simulated voice interactions were analyzed through thematic analysis. The study focused on four categories: error management, support for interactional fluency, tolerance of interactional pace, and reinforcement of student confidence. The results show that ChatGPT frequently adopts a supportive and non-evaluative interactional style through indirect reformulations, positive reinforcement, and follow-up questions that encourage continued participation. The analysis also reveals several limitations. The tool often interrupts during pauses and tends to close conversations relatively quickly, creating inconsistencies in the interaction. In addition, the limited use of explicit corrective feedback may reduce opportunities for linguistic development. The study identifies a number of interactional features that the literature on FLA associates with a less anxiety-inducing environment for oral practice. At the same time, the findings highlight the importance of prompt design and interactional structure when using conversational AI in educational contexts.