Background

YLC has recently received a couple of grants (EdTech, NWACC) to help fund the development of a speech-based virtual language lab (VLL). The initiative has several goals: 1) to make speech software as easy to work with and assess as text, 2) to leverage the web’s communication possibilities for personalizing language learning, and 3) not insignificantly, to replace our rapidly aging analogue audio equipment. During the past year we've worked with a consultant to develop several web-based applications that extend or replace the traditional language lab.

Below are links to actual applications—all are password protected. But you can see detailed examples in our handout (.pdf).

1) Listen, Repeat, and Repeat Again
The existing virtual language lab has been enhanced with the addition of a virtual tape recorder. This simple tool adds an important component to language practice, the ability to hear and monitor what one says. It's now embedded into all of our coursebook listening activities.

http://babel.uoregon.edu/YLC-AV

2) A Messaging System—The FL Message Board
Speech samples (audio or video-based), collected into a personal portfolio we're calling the FL Message Board, allow asynchronous communication that goes several steps beyond email or other messaging systems. While text messaging is still possible, the FL-Message Book is based on voice communication, allowing the teacher to listen and respond through speech. Likewise, students can communicate with one another and collaborate on assignments using the same tools.

http://babel.uoregon.edu/MessageBoards/instructor_index.lasso

3) Quizmaker/Survey Tool
This is a good example of how (Flash-based) speech can be added to many existing web applications. This tool for constructing simple assessments or querying opinions can now be used to collect speech samples as well as other kinds of input.

http://babel.uoregon.edu/surveys

4) Amiga
Our first synchronous A/V chat tool, designed for both language learning and other kinds of academic communication. It runs both in the Blackboard course management system and as a stand-alone application. Currently in beta-testing.

http://babel.uoregon.edu/amiga

5) References for Digital Labs
Converting a language lab (or library) from the analog world of tape to the digital one of web-based resources is not a trivial undertaking. Most labs opt for long transitions and resort to some combination of vendor-supplied and homegrown solutions. The references on the next page contain some of the technologies we consulted in our search for a next-generation speech tool.

http://babel.uoregon.edu/ortesolrefs.html

6) Contact Info
We've got lots of ideas for other kinds of applications and we're very interested in collaborating with other institutions making the switch to web-based speech. Please contact us for more information about the use of these speech-based tools. Contact Jim Duber if you're interested in having similar applications developed for your school.

This page is maintained by the Yamada Language Center at the University of Oregon.