WordBricks: a virtual language lab inspired by Scratch environment and dependency grammars

Maxim Mozgovoy,Roman Efimov

doi:10.1186/2192-1962-3-5

Abstract

AbstractThis paper explains design decisions forming a foundation of WordBricks — an intelligent computer-assisted language learning environment, recently initiated at our institution. WordBricks is intended to serve as a “virtual language lab” that supports open experiments with natural language constructions. Being based on dependency grammars, this instrument illustrates the use of modern natural language processing technologies in language learning. The latest prototypes of WordBricks also show how dependency-styled constructions can be represented in a more natural sequential form that facilitates easier user interaction.

Highlights

This paper explains design decisions forming a foundation of WordBricks — an intelligent computer-assisted language learning environment, recently initiated at our institution
It seems natural that researchers are often more focused on the integration of existing technologies into language curricula and the development of well-balanced teaching methods that combine theory, technology, and pedagogy, rather than on purely technological advancements for computer-assisted language learning (CALL) systems [1]
It has been suggested that a hypothetical intelligent CALL (ICALL) system can be based on both technical and theoretical advancements

Summary

Introduction

This paper explains design decisions forming a foundation of WordBricks — an intelligent computer-assisted language learning environment, recently initiated at our institution. Some systems were characterized as being brilliantly designed, nicely organized (as a combination of traditional lessons, word drills, scenario-based lessons/dialogues, etc.), or based on innovative educational concepts, such as involving a learner into a real text translation project These features are beneficial for a language learner, but in most cases they do not make use of recent research advancements (probably, the only exception is high-quality speech recognition). One can note a contrast between CALL instruments and educational software, available for natural sciences, such as physics or chemistry For these subjects, in addition to browsing multimedia learning materials, a student can often perform numerous experiments in a “virtual lab” (such as, for example, The Virtual Physical Laboratory [6] and The ChemCollective [7])

Objectives

Conclusion