The Bilingual Robotic Barista: Serving Drinks and English to Thai University Students
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Abstract
This study explores the English use and practice of students in relation to their barista selection methods, juxtaposed with various dynamics about AI technology and communication. Tao Bin offers potential customers multiple options for drinks or beverages, and more importantly, provides these guests with the ability to choose and communicate in either English or Thai. A Thai Bin machine is an AI-powered coffee and tea machine that serves drinks in 1-2 minutes, offering a wide range of options. For a second-language learner trying to learn English, this option may serve as more than just a beverage supplier; it can also provide a judgment-free zone for communicating in English. This study used observation and interviews to collect data, and a coding chart was used to analyze student responses. The results indicated that students certainly utilized the English feature in a way that promotes language growth and prosperity. This study combined theory, observation, and conceptualization to examine how students interact and communicate with AI. The implications of this study are that English language learners could use these machines for practice and continue to acquire English without fear or worry about feedback from others.
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