scholarly journals Assessing the quality of TTS audio in the LARA learning-by-reading platform

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
Elham Akhlaghi ◽  
Anna Bączkowska ◽  
Harald Berthelsen ◽  
Branislav Bédi ◽  
Cathy Chua ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Open Source ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Text To Speech ◽  
Human Voice ◽  
L2 Learning ◽  
Learning By Reading

A popular idea in Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is to use multimodal annotated texts, with annotations typically including embedded audio and translations, to support L2 learning through reading. An important question is how to create the audio, which can be done either through human recording or by a Text-To-Speech (TTS) synthesis engine. We may reasonably expect TTS to be quicker and easier, but humans to be of higher quality. Here, we report a study using the open-source LARA platform and ten languages. Samples of LARA audio totaling about three and a half minutes were provided for each language in both human and TTS form; subjects used a web form to compare different versions of the same item and rate the voices as a whole. Although human voice was more often preferred, TTS achieved higher ratings in some languages and was close in others.

scholarly journals On the benefits of multimodal annotations for vocabulary uptake from reading

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
F Boers ◽  
Paul Warren ◽  
Georgina Grimshaw ◽  
Anna Siyanova
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Coding Theory ◽  
Word Meaning ◽  
Single Mode ◽  
Dual Coding ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Dual Coding Theory ◽  
New Words

© 2017 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. Several research articles published in the realm of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) have reported evidence of the benefits of multimodal annotations, i.e. the provision of pictorial as well as verbal clarifications, for vocabulary uptake from reading. Almost invariably, these publications account for the observed benefits with reference to Paivio's Dual Coding Theory, suggesting it is the visual illustration of word meaning that enhances the quality of processing and hence makes new words more memorable. In this discussion article, we explore the possibility that it is not necessarily the multimodality per se that accounts for the reported benefits. Instead, we argue that the provision of multimodal annotations is one of several possible means of inviting more and/or longer attention to the annotations–with amounts of attention given to words being a significant predictor of their retention in memory. After reviewing the available research on the subject and questioning whether invoking Paivio's Dual Coding Theory is an optimal account for reported findings, we report an eye-tracking study the results of which are consistent with the alternative thesis that the advantage of multimodal glosses for word learning lies with the greater quantity of attention these glosses attract in comparison with single-mode glosses. We conclude with a call for further research on combinations and sequences of annotation types, regardless of multimodality, as ways of promoting vocabulary uptake from reading.

scholarly journals On the benefits of multimodal annotations for vocabulary uptake from reading

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
F Boers ◽  
Paul Warren ◽  
Georgina Grimshaw ◽  
Anna Siyanova
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Coding Theory ◽  
Word Meaning ◽  
Single Mode ◽  
Dual Coding ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Dual Coding Theory ◽  
New Words

© 2017 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. Several research articles published in the realm of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) have reported evidence of the benefits of multimodal annotations, i.e. the provision of pictorial as well as verbal clarifications, for vocabulary uptake from reading. Almost invariably, these publications account for the observed benefits with reference to Paivio's Dual Coding Theory, suggesting it is the visual illustration of word meaning that enhances the quality of processing and hence makes new words more memorable. In this discussion article, we explore the possibility that it is not necessarily the multimodality per se that accounts for the reported benefits. Instead, we argue that the provision of multimodal annotations is one of several possible means of inviting more and/or longer attention to the annotations–with amounts of attention given to words being a significant predictor of their retention in memory. After reviewing the available research on the subject and questioning whether invoking Paivio's Dual Coding Theory is an optimal account for reported findings, we report an eye-tracking study the results of which are consistent with the alternative thesis that the advantage of multimodal glosses for word learning lies with the greater quantity of attention these glosses attract in comparison with single-mode glosses. We conclude with a call for further research on combinations and sequences of annotation types, regardless of multimodality, as ways of promoting vocabulary uptake from reading.

Need and Possible Criteria for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Computer-Mediated Communication

2011 ◽  
pp. 154-164
Author(s):  
Yi-Chieh Ho
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
End Users ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Computer Mediated

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) has been a ‘hot’ topic in computer-assisted language learning (CALL); however, its effectiveness remains uncertain. This chapter reviews the nature of CMC, pinpoints the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating it into language learning, considers factors that may affect the quality of CMC, and identifies possible directions for future studies. The author argues that sound criteria are lacking for the evaluation of the effectiveness of CMC and attempts to identify a set of possible criteria for classroom-based studies drawing from literature in language teaching and learning. The author also urges engineers to consider these criteria when designing new software, so that end users can conveniently measure its effectiveness and record their own progress.

The Potential of Text-to-Speech Synthesis in Computer-Assisted Language Learning

2020 ◽  
pp. 149-169
Author(s):  
Neasa Ní Chiaráin ◽  
Ailbhe Ní Chasaide
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Auditory Feedback ◽  
Speech Synthesis ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Text To Speech ◽  
Written Form ◽  
Text To Speech Synthesis

This chapter describes the potential of text-to-speech synthesis (TTS) as a tool that can transform CALL platforms. Illustrating this point, a specific platform, An Scéalaí, is presented. By incorporating TTS, this platform facilitates the training of literacy skills, writing, and reading, with an emphasis at all times on the spoken language. The platform is described, as is the way in which it functions as a personalised tutor, prompting the learner towards self-correction. The prompts are delivered in both spoken/auditory form (using TTS voices) and in written form. The auditory feedback enables prooflistening, as well as spoken instructions pertaining to specific errors not picked up in the prooflistening process. The learner's progress is monitored throughout and records of the process are harvested for future research. The language in focus is Irish, and the linguistic complexities being targeted in the present implementation are explained, along with the relevant sociolinguistic context.

scholarly journals Computermediets differentieringspotentiale i sproglig læring belyst ud fra en procesorienteret synsvinkel

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (30) ◽  
pp. 13
Author(s):  
Lone Ambjørn
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Model Based ◽  
Strong Point ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
L2 Learning ◽  
Interlanguage Development

The main point of this article is to demonstrate that the existence of the computer-medium within L21 learning and acquisition is justified by its potential of differentiation. In order to make the optimum use of this potential, it is necessary to design syllabi based on L2 research and theories of language learning acquisition. Taking as a starting point the learner’s interlanguage development, I am introducing a model of L2 learning and acquisition, a model based on input as well as on output. The strong point in having this model is that you can use it for computer-assisted language learning, and in this way you can contribute to the implementation of differentiated syllabi that take into account the psycholinguistic processes that characterize interlanguage development.

A Comparative Study of Open-Access Websites for Autonomous Learning of English

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 83-95
Author(s):  
María Elena Gómez-Parra ◽  
Roberto Espejo-Mohedano
Keyword(s):  
Open Access ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Autonomous Learning ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Critical Perspective ◽  
Valuable Contribution ◽  
Authentic Materials ◽  
Professional Guidance

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) benefits from undeniable steps forward such as the use of authentic materials, real communicative contexts and the ubiquity of learning. However, to discriminate the quality of digital resources for autonomous language learning from a critical perspective is not an easy task due to its diversity. This article offers the evaluation of a selected set of open-access and institutional websites for the learning of English as a Second Language (ESL) as the result of a research project for which expert-validated tools have been used. The statistical analyses carried out offer interesting data on the highest- and lowest-ranked ESL sites from both technical and academic viewpoints related to the quality of the resources offered. The conclusions address at a valuable contribution to the orientation of autonomous learning as an inherently human activity, but which nowadays still needs professional guidance and support.

Guerrilla fan translation, language learning, and metalinguistic discussion in a Catalan-speaking community of gamers

ReCALL ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 1-18
Author(s):  
Boris Vazquez-Calvo
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Cultural Production ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
New Members ◽  
Fertile Ground ◽  
Language Classrooms ◽  
Learning Language ◽  
Effective Integration

Abstract Driven by their affinity to popular culture, fans frequently engage in linguistic practices that may be conducive to language learning. This study seeks to find out how a group of Catalan-speaking gamers decided to start producing fan translations of video games from English into Catalan. Based on a digital ethnography (online interviews and observation of the group’s activity), two types of analysis were conducted: a content analysis for recurrent trends and a focused analysis of internal metalinguistic discussions on the quality of translations. Results indicate that fan translators (1) organize hierarchically with set roles and functions, (2) curate their group identity and care for the promotion of Catalan as a vehicle for cultural production, (3) learn language incidentally in three ways: while translating (ensuring the comprehension of English and the linguistic quality and creativity of the transfer into Catalan), through sharing language doubts with their peers on their Telegram group and dialogically agreeing on pragmatically acceptable English-Catalan translations, and through metalinguistic discussions on translation tests received from potential new members. The study resonates with a novel subfield in computer-assisted language learning: language learning in the digital wilds, which might be fertile ground for studies on incidental and informal language learning online. The study may also serve as inspiration for effective integration of translation into language classrooms in a manner that bridges vernacular fan translation and pedagogic translation, considering the importance of metalinguistic discussion for language learning and the sociocultural dimension of both translation and language learning.

New Trends in ICTs and Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL)

2011 ◽  
pp. 211-224
Author(s):  
Bolanle A. Olaniran
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Information Communication Technologies ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Information Communication ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
L2 Learning

This chapter explores information communication technologies (ICTs) (e.g., computer-mediated communication) and the implications for use in language learning and second language learning (L2). Further, the chapter presents culture and new trends in ICTs for L2 learning. Specific modality, challenges, and issues for future considerations in L2 learning are discussed. The chapter argues for the need to understand culture and contextual appropriateness of L2 learning in ICT environments. Finally the chapter contends that ICTs are best relegated as a supplemental role or tools, rather than as an outright substitute for traditional L2 learning and curricula.

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