Abstract:

Many studies have failed to demonstrate the effectiveness of CALI (Computer Assisted Language Instruction) as compared to non-CALI instruction, and the pedagogical significance of CALI programs has been questioned. This study employs an intelligent CALI program, called Nihongo-CALI (Japanese Computer Assisted Language Instruction), which uses natural language processing to provide more sophisticated error analysis and feedback than conventional CALI programs. The study compares the effectiveness of Nihongo-CALI with non-CALI workbook instruction, in the form of self-study lessons. The results of the study show that given the same grammar notes and exercises, ongoing intelligent computer feedback is more effective than simple workbook answer sheets for developing learners' grammatical skill in producing Japanese particles and sentences. The results emphasize the importance of providing an intelligent level of feedback to the learner, a task for which natural language processing is well suited.

Author: Noriko Nagata