AI-based chatterbots and spoken English teaching: a critical analysis

Author: Sha, Guoquan

Source: Computer Assisted Language Learning, Volume 22, Number 3, July 2009 , pp. 269-281(13)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

The aim of various approaches implemented, whether the classical “three Ps” (presentation, practice, and production) or communicative language teaching (CLT), is to achieve communicative competence. Although a lot of software developed for teaching spoken English is dressed up to raise interaction, its methodology is largely rooted in tradition. Chatterbots based on dialogue management and developed with AI, TTS technology, and computer animation can engage the learner in computer-simulated human-human conversations. Its natural language social interaction opens new horizons for spoken language teaching/learning. A classroom survey was conducted in which the students showed keen interest and computer-simulated human-human interaction was frequently observed.

Keywords: chatterbots; interaction; spoken English teaching

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09588220902920284

Affiliations: 1: Foreign Language Department, Sichuan Economic Management College, Sichuan, P.R., China

Publication date: 2009-07-01