Abstract
This entry explores the concept of conversational AI literacy and its implications for language education. Developments in natural language processing technology have led to the emergence of sophisticated AI tools that have the capacity to replicate and respond to human language, presenting language learners with new opportunities for personalised learning and interactive language practice. Conversational AI literacy is a competency that enables language learners to engage effectively with these tools across different modalities, including text, voice, and video. It involves understanding the operational mechanisms, affordances and limitations of tools such as chatbots, virtual assistants, text-to-speech and speech recognition software, as well as new forms of conversational AI that are yet to be created. Language learners should experiment with different conversational AI to explore the affordances of different models and modalities, learn to provide effective input, and develop the skills required to critically evaluate output. Language educators should provide guidance to help learners use this technology appropriately and be able to select or develop their own tools, such as personalised chatbots, for specific learning contexts. As conversational AI tools rapidly evolve to become more multimodal and immersive, it will be increasingly important for both language educators and learners to seize the potential of this technology by developing conversational AI literacy.