Describes a computer-assisted simulation that was used to improve foreign language learning among engineering and teaching students. The use of telecommunications is discussed; the foreign policy orientation of the simulation is described; and the positive effects of the simulation on student motivation, independent learning, and cooperation are…

Discussion of communicative competence in second language acquisition focuses on a theoretical and practical meshing of simulation and gaming methodology with theories of foreign language acquisition, including task-based learning, interaction, and comprehensible input. Describes experiments conducted with computer-assisted simulations in…

The aim of this study is to design and develop a Physically Interactive Learning Environment, the PILE system, by integrating video-capture virtual reality technology into a classroom. The system is designed for elementary school level English classes where students can interact with the system through physical movements. The system is designed to…

Utah State University's intensive Spanish program uses video simulations of real-life experiences as the basis for classroom instruction in lieu of following a textbook, allowing the class to become student-centered, rather than instructor-centered, through a problem-solving group endeavor. (Author/CB)

Covariance structure modeling by LISREL was used in an analysis of relations between intellectual ability, as measured by the Finnish version of the Illinois Test of Psycholinguistic Abilities (ITPA), and achievement in reading, writing, foreign language, and mathematics in longitudinal data on 234 Finnish school children. The validity of the ITPA…

Lifelike, interactive digital characters, serving as mentors and role-playing actors, have been shown to significantly improve learner motivation and retention. However, the cost of modeling such characters, authoring and editing their interactions, and delivering them over limited-bandwidth connections can be prohibitive. This paper describes a…

Describes projects at the University of Central Florida to test new training technologies under controlled but realistic settings. Original plans for an "Experimental Prototyping Classroom" are discussed; and current developments in language training research, gaming technology, and virtual environments are described. (EAM)

The significant increase of English Language Learners (ELLs) in the United States raises complex questions about how to provide these students with access to high quality education that can improve both their content knowledge of school subjects and their English proficiency, particularly their academic English proficiency. The development of…

Discusses computer-mediated communication (CMC) and computer-assisted language learning and explains how second language learners become communicatively fluent through a text-based CMC setting. Highlights include how asynchronous and synchronous CMC can support learners' cognitive processes; and models for combining text-based CMC with spoken…

This study focuses on the various playful uses of language that occurred during a semester-long study of two German language courses using one type of synchronous network-based medium, the MOO. Research and use of synchronous computer-mediated communication (CMC) have flourished in the study of second-language acquisition (SLA) since the late…

The Technology Enhanced Accent Modification (TEAM) project created multimedia software to improve the oral proficiency of international teaching assistants (ITAs). Objectives were to: (1) develop reliable accent modification software that would operate on computers found at most colleges; (2) determine how TEAM-based accent modification…

The RECEPTION GAME teaches conversation skills to adult foreign language learners with positions in international business and diplomacy. The design combines elements of simulation and experiential learning and takes into account conversation's rapport-building function, turn-taking mechanisms, open-ended structure, listening demands for following…

This project developed computer-based language teaching software to assist beginning second language learners develop listening comprehension skills. Students interact with computer-based simulations of real world problems, which require their understanding of oral language provided by the computer system. The project embraced a communicative…

The use of MOOs, multi-user simulated environments in education examined in three papers include: "MOOving around the Net: The Educational Potential of MOOs: A Point of View" (Daniel Ingvarson); "MOOing in a Foreign Language: How, Why and Who?" (Lonnie Turbee) and "MOOving around the Net: Real to Virtual and Back…

In the fall of 1996, the Arkansas Archeological Survey and the Department of Foreign Languages at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville received a $180,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities Teaching With Technology program. The goal of this grant initiative was to encourage creation of content-rich, computer-based materials…