An Intelligent Web-Based Human-Computer Interaction System with Natural Language CSIEC and its Integration into English Instruction

Abstract

Computer Simulation in Educational Communication (CSIEC), is not only an intelligent Web-based human-computer dialogue system with natural language for English instruction, but also a learning assessment system for learners and teachers. Its multiple functions including grammar gap filling exercises, talk show, and free chatting or chatting on a given topic can satisfy the various needs from the students. This chapter will present the CSIEC system and its integration into English instruction with pilot case studies. At first the computer assisted language learning (CALL) development and research are surveyed to address the need for a virtual interactive chatting partner. Then the underlying theory and architecture of CSIEC are elucidated. This chapter mainly introduces the pedagogical functions in details and explains how to integrate the CSIEC into English class with two pilot studies in middle school, and analyzes the application and evaluation results. At last the lessons learned from the case studies and the further development direction are discussed.