Research article    |    Open Access
International Journal of Language and Education Research 2026, Vol. 8(1) 67-80

Perceptions of Implementing AI-Based Speaking Assessment Tools in Legal English Education: A Mixed-Methods Study among Lecturers and Students at Hanoi Law University

Nguyen Hai Anh & Thu Nguyen Thi Hong

pp. 67 - 80

Publish Date: April 30, 2026  |   Single/Total View: 0/0   |   Single/Total Download: 0/0


Abstract

This study investigated perceptions of AI-based speaking assessment tools in legal English education at Hanoi Law University (HLU) in Vietnam, addressing a gap in discipline-specific applications within non-native EFL contexts. Employing a concurrent mixed-methods design, quantitative surveys were administered to 105 second-year legal English students, while semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 lecturers to explore views on AI's role in evaluating legal discourse. Findings revealed positive perceptions of AI's efficiency (mean = 4.23 on a 5-point scale) and skill improvement potential (mean = 3.98), with perceptions varying significantly by student performance levels (ANOVA: F(2,102) = 5.24, p = 0.007 for feedback immediacy). Lecturers expressed optimism for AI's immediacy and advocated hybrid approaches. However, results are limited by self-reported data, a single-institution sample, and potential response bias, restricting generalizability. Future research should incorporate objective measures and multi-site designs for broader validation.

Keywords: AI-based assessment, automated speaking evaluation, English for specific purposes (ESP), legal English, higher education, student perceptions


How to Cite this Article?

APA 7th edition
Anh, N.H., & Hong, T.N.T. (2026). Perceptions of Implementing AI-Based Speaking Assessment Tools in Legal English Education: A Mixed-Methods Study among Lecturers and Students at Hanoi Law University. International Journal of Language and Education Research, 8(1), 67-80.

Harvard
Anh, N. and Hong, T. (2026). Perceptions of Implementing AI-Based Speaking Assessment Tools in Legal English Education: A Mixed-Methods Study among Lecturers and Students at Hanoi Law University. International Journal of Language and Education Research, 8(1), pp. 67-80.

Chicago 16th edition
Anh, Nguyen Hai and Thu Nguyen Thi Hong (2026). "Perceptions of Implementing AI-Based Speaking Assessment Tools in Legal English Education: A Mixed-Methods Study among Lecturers and Students at Hanoi Law University". International Journal of Language and Education Research 8 (1):67-80.

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