Beyond The Bot: Mizou as A Catalyst for Authentic Language Fluency

Abstract Book of the 9th International Academic Conference on Education, Teaching and Learning

Year: 2026

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Beyond The Bot: Mizou as A Catalyst for Authentic Language Fluency

Hila Weiss

ABSTRACT:

This presentation details a two-year practical exploration of Mizou, an AI-powered chatbot platform, and its application in fostering second language (L2) fluency. Moving beyond traditional accuracy-focused exercises, this study investigates how Mizou’s customizable and responsive interface creates a low-anxiety environment for sustained, meaningful dialogue. The session will showcase how tailored bot personalities and scenarios can prompt learners to engage in extended, unprompted conversations, thereby practicing strategic competence, negotiation of meaning, and automaticity—key components of fluency. Preliminary observations and user feedback indicate a marked increase in learners’ willingness to communicate and perceived fluency, particularly in their ability to formulate thoughts more rapidly and maintain conversations on diverse topics. This study argues for a paradigm shift in technology-assisted language learning (TALL), positioning AI chatbots not as mere tutoring tools, but as essential partners for simulating the authentic, interactive pressure necessary for fluency development. The visual presentation will include live demonstrations of key Mizou features, student interaction examples, and a framework for implementation.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Conversation Simulation; Language Acquisition; Technology-Assisted Learning (TALL); Willingness to Communicate