Intelligent virtual agents as language trainers facilitate multilingualism

Abstract

In this paper we introduce a new generation of language trainers: intelligent virtual agents (IVAs) with human appearance and the capability to teach foreign language vocabulary. We report results from studies that we have conducted with Billie, an IVA employed as a vocabulary trainer, as well as research findings on the acceptance of the agent as a trainer by adults and children. The results show that Billie can train humans as well as a human teacher can and that both adults and children accept the IVA as a trainer. The advantages of IVAs are multiple. First, their teaching methods can be based on neuropsychological research findings concerning memory and learning practice. Second, virtual teachers can provide individualized training. Third, they coach users during training, are always supportive, and motivate learners to train. Fourth, agents will reside in the user's mobile devices and thus be at the user's disposal everywhere and anytime. Agents in apps will make foreign language training accessible to anybody at low cost. This will enable people around the world, including physically, financially, and geographically disadvantaged persons, to learn a foreign language and help to facilitate multilingualism.

Mobile assistance for personal learning on a massive scale

“…Mobile assistance can be as simple as a translation facility on a mobile phone; but intelligent agents and assistants that currently answer questions and give recommendations on smartphones are likely to evolve into more sophisticated human-like help and will challenge human-led teaching and training (see for example Macedonia, Groher, & Roithmayr, 2014). Next generation voice-controlled personal assistants will be able to perform thousands of tasks and will be integrated into everyday objects and companion robots (Kim, Kim, Jun, & Kim, 2017).…”

Flipping the blend through MOOCs, MALL and OIL – new directions in CALL

“…It seems that human capabilities are far in advance of AI, yet in the near future mobile and intelligent assistance is set to increase and diversify. Mobile assistance can be as simple as a translation facility on a mobile phone; but intelligent agents and assistants that currently answer questions and give recommendations on smartphones are likely to evolve into more sophisticated human-like help and will challenge human-led teaching and training (see for example Macedonia, Groher, & Roithmayr, 2014). Next generation voice-controlled personal assistants will be able to perform thousands of tasks and will be integrated into everyday objects and companion robots (Kim, Kim, Jun, & Kim, 2017).…”

The Dependability of Voice on Elders’ Acceptance of Humanoid Agents

“…Advances in research and technology have brought about the possibility of humanoid virtual agents becoming part of everyday living, founding applications in several areas of human activity. They are being used as trainer [1,2]; automated coach [3], museum guide [4], touristic assistant [5], companion or assistant for seniors [6,7], customer assistant in e-commerce [8], in videogame [9], and in many different ICT (Information Communication Technologies) applications devoted to social services.…”