Development of a speech-enabled basic arithmetic m-learning application for foundation phase learners

Abstract

In very simple terms, speech synthesis is the process of generating spoken language by machine on the basis of text input, and text-to-speech is a specific type which takes as input raw text and aims to mimic the human process of reading. Computerassisted learning (CAL) can be defined as learning or teaching through the use of computers with packaged knowledge content learning materials. CAL involves a computer program or file developed specifically for educational purposes. Mobile learning or “m-learning” is the ability to obtain or provide educational content on personal pocket devices such as PDAs, smartphones and mobile phones. m-Learning as an educational activity makes sense only when the technology in use facilitates and supports mobility in learning. In this paper, we discuss the development of a mathematical computer-assisted learning mobile application that integrates a text-to-speech synthesis module for South African low-resourced languages, initially targeting the Sepedi language. The system is aimed at assisting mathematically illiterate persons and foundation phase learners to learn and understand the representation and articulation of mathematical expressions incorporating four basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). It also incorporates a few numeracy functions. The results obtained from the experiments conducted with the prototype CAL system show that 80% of the participants were impressed by the developed mobile application. There is great need to enhance the development of software applications that support the teaching and learning activities at the foundation phase of education in South Africa.