Features of using chatbots in foreign language learning

Background. The modern educational process is inconceivable without the use of digital technologies. One such functional and accessible technology is the use of chatbots, based on algorithms that mimic human speech and are used to facilitate communication in a foreign language. This article attempts to identify the advantages of introducing chatbot technology into foreign language teaching from the perspective of modern methodology and notes some difficulties related to the use of this technology in English language teaching. Purpose. The main objective of this article is to justify the possibilities offered by chatbots in language learning. Materials and methods. This work uses theoretical methods of generalization and analysis of the scientific literature, as well as an empirical method of observing the use of chatbot technology by teachers and students in two 9th‑grade classes at a secondary school (60 students), and the results of tests administered to students participating in the experimental activity. The use of this technology is examined from the perspective of both actors in the educational process: the teacher and the students. Results. Observation of chatbots revealed significant advantages of using this technology in the educational process. Functions such as accessibility and the possibility of personalized learning were examined. It was found that chatbots allow teachers to develop various tasks and tests to develop communicative competence. It is noted that the successful implementation of a bot in the learning process requires careful planning and the development of high‑quality teaching materials by the teacher. It is important to consider the specific nature of the learning content, the learners’ level of preparation, and the platform’s characteristics. It is also necessary to ensure a balance between independent student work and teacher support. The technology of integrating chatbots, as dialogic assistants, into the educational process offers significant opportunities to improve the effectiveness and quality of foreign language teaching.