Heather R. Woodward
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Presentation A Mobile App for L2 Fluency Development more
Sat, Jul 19, 16:20-16:45 Asia/Tokyo
Assessing second language (L2) spoken fluency remains a challenge for instructors, despite its importance in language learning and proficiency (Brown, 2006; Fulcher, 2003; Kang et al., 2019). Spoken fluency, defined as the "smoothness and effortlessness of speech" (Chambers, 1997), is a key indicator of L2 proficiency and a central focus in L2 oral assessments (Ogawa, 2022; Peltonen, 2024). To address this, we developed a mobile app to track and enhance spoken fluency, grounded in theories of speech production (Levelt, 1993) and skill development (DeKeyser, 2007). The app also integrates gamification elements such as progress checkers, which might increase learner engagement in out-of-class activities (See Huang et al., 2018). This workshop reviews research on spoken fluency development, explores assessment methods, and presents findings from our study on the app’s syllable-counting ability. The study involved 84 first-year undergraduate students from a private university in Tokyo, Japan. Participants recorded one-minute monologues, and data was analyzed using Bland-Altman analysis to determine which speech-to-text method—pitch analysis, Apple’s speech-to-text, or WhisperX’s speech-to-text—best matched human syllable counts.
Forum Tokyo JALT Forum more
Fri, Jul 18, 17:00-18:00 Asia/Tokyo
This forum brings together three presenters exploring the intersection of language learning and technology, each offering unique insights into how digital tools can support learner engagement, autonomy, and innovation. Nicolas Vassilenko investigates how game-based environments leveraging fictional languages can simulate immersive acquisition experiences. Asad Delawalla presents findings from a qualitative study on students' perspectives and ethical concerns surrounding AI in second language writing. Sarah Deutchman shares initiatives and research focused on data-driven learning, learner autonomy, and AI applications in education. Together, these talks offer a thought-provoking look at how technology continues to reshape language education.
