Discusses a new template-automaton-based knowledge database system for an interactive intelligent language tutoring system (ILTS) for Japanese-English translation, whereby model translations as well as a taxonomy of bugs extracted from ill-formed translations typical of nonnative learners are collected. (Author/VWL)

Results of a two-year project (L'Italiano interattivo) conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Computing Centre for the Humanities to produce learner-directed Italian courseware are reported. The SuperCard-developed program allows students to work with video, exercises, grammar, dictionary, or transcripts. (Author/LB)

Most currently available computer-assisted language learning offerings fall into three categories: instructional, collaborative, and facilitative. Each is described and cost-effective approaches to using them are noted. (Contains two references.) (LB)

Describes an answer analysis system, called Answer Pattern Manager, that solves the difficult problem of recognizing student reproduction of spoken Japanese sentences. It allows all reasonable Roman spellings of Japanese words, while at the same time detecting mishearings and distinguishing between important and unimportant words. (Contains eight…

The strategy used in "Miniprof," a program designed to provide "intelligent" instruction on elementary topics in French, is described. At an erroneous response, the program engages the student in a Socratic dialog and uses three major functions: parsing, error diagnostics, and tutoring. (10 references) (Author/LB)

GPARS is a generalized transition network system designed for language study by both students and researchers. It generalizes the Augmented Transition Network formalism by allowing top-down, bottom-up, depth-first, breadth-first, determininistic, and nondeterministic parsing strategies to be freely intermixed. (26 references) (Author/LB)

A sequence comparison procedure, referred to as the edit distance procedure, has been shown to be particularly accurate for recognizing misspelled responses in second-language computer-assisted instruction. Experience with real dictation responses indicates that this technique reliably obtains markups that appear natural for users. (Author/VWL)

Two fictitious interviews are presented, one describing the second-language learning experience as a desert across which one has to pass to attain an elusive language proficiency, and the other considering, in tongue-in-cheek style, the role of technology in second-language teaching and learning. (MSE)

Discusses research aimed at improving the educational quality of hypermedia-based computer assisted language learning systems. Focuses on a methodological framework that draws on recent developments in the field of human-computer interaction regarding interactive system design and a general constructivist approach to the design of computer-based…

Explores the opportunities offered by the Internet for technology-based instruction in the beginning language classroom. Discusses computer assisted language learning as it is relevant to the purpose and introduces the main aspects of a task-based approach. Presents sample exercises that are based on a combination of these two aspects of teaching…

Describes the genesis of the Libra authoring system and provides a detailed view of the design of a courseware program created by means of it. Lessons learned during the dissemination of the authoring system underscore the needs for more in-depth understanding of instructional design and the implementation of pedagogical principles by faculty…

Discusses SEAsite, a Web-based interactive learning resource site for Southeast Asian Languages (Indonesian, Tagalog, Thai., Khmer, Lao, Burmese, and Vietnamese). Its language learning materials feature second language script support, streaming audio, pictures, and interactive exercise types that allow learners to test their understanding.…

Reviews four sets of computer-mediated materials for Chinese character learning. These include the following: Write Chinese, Chinese Characters Primer, Animated Chinese Characters, and USC Chinese Character Page. (Author/VWL)

Introduces two Chinese/Japanese/Korean (CJK) Web Utilities: NJStar Asian Explorer and Asian Communicator. (Author/VWL)

Deals with theoretical considerations and didactic concerns involved in the integration of new interactive digital technologies into the instructional process. Summarizes benefits derived from computer-assisted language learning media digital technology with regard to language instruction, learners, and teachers. Advances arguments for its…