PRAGMATIC COMPETENCE IN AI-HUMAN INTERACTIONS: A LINGUISTIC ANALYSIS OF DIGITAL PEDAGOGY

Abstract

The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into foreign language education has revolutionized the way students engage with linguistic data. However, while AI platforms excel at providing feedback on syntax and morphology, their capacity to foster pragmatic competence remains a critical area of investigation. The study examines the "sincerity gap" in AI-human dialogue and analyzes how the lack of social consequence leads to socio-pragmatic fossilization. By applying Speech Act Theory and Grice’s Maxims to digital discourse, the study evaluates the effectiveness of current AI platforms in preparing students for culturally authentic communication. The findings suggest that while AI acts as a valuable instructional mediator, it may lead to "hyper-polite" or "robotic" speech patterns. The research concludes that a hybrid model, combining AI efficiency with meta-pragmatic analysis, is essential for true communicative mastery.