Intelligent Computer Assisted Language Learning (ICALL) for nêhiyawêwin: An In-Depth User-Experience Evaluation
Abstract
Abstract
Intelligent computer assisted language learning (ICALL) applications for Indigenous languages are a relatively new avenue for computer assisted language learning (CALL). CALL allows language learners to practise a wide range of grammatical exercises and receive feedback on their answers outside of class time. ICALL is essential for dynamically producing these exercises for polysynthetic Indigenous languages with complex morphology. To better understand user perceptions and behaviours within an ICALL setting, an in-depth user evaluation of nêhiyawêtân (a university-level ICALL application for Plains Cree) was initiated. Five second language learners of Plains Cree were recorded using nêhiyawêtân as they completed various grammatical exercises. They were encouraged to report their opinions, thoughts, and observations aloud. Subsequently, observed user reactions and strategies were recorded. This supplied us with potential user errors, strategies, and preferences that allowed us to improve answer feedback and the design and interface of the exercise templates. Moreover, the results of surveys and observations highlighted sociocultural issues that are not seen in mainstream CALL for majority languages. We hope that this evaluation will serve as a guideline for evaluating future ICALL programs for Indigenous and other minority languages.
Résumé
Les applications d’apprentissage intelligent des langues assisté par ordinateur (AILAO) sont une voie relativement nouvelle d’apprentissage des langues assisté par ordinateur (ALAO). L’ALAO permet aux apprenants d’une langue d’exécuter un vaste éventail d’exercices grammaticaux et de recevoir des commentaires rétroactifs quant à leurs réponses, en dehors des heures de cours. L’ALAO est essentiel à la production dynamique de ces exercices pour les langues autochtones polysynthétiques dont la morphologie est complexe. Afin de mieux comprendre les perceptions et les comportements des utilisateurs en contexte d’AILAO, des usagers de la nêhiyawêtân (une application d’AILAO de niveau universitaire qui s’adresse aux Cris des Plaines) sont appelés à évaluer en profondeur cette application. Cinq apprenants du cri des Plaines langue seconde sont enregistrés alors qu’ils utilisent la nêhiyawêtân dans l’exécution de divers exercices grammaticaux. Ils sont invités à formuler à voix haute leurs opinions, leurs réflexions et leurs observations. Par la suite, les réactions et les stratégies des usagers qui ont été observées sont enregistrées, ce qui révèle aux auteurs quelles sont les erreurs, les stratégies et les préférences des usagers potentiels et leur permet d’améliorer les commentaires rétroactifs et la conception de même que l’interface des modèles d’exercices proposés. Au surplus, les résultats des sondages menés par les auteurs et leurs observations mettent en lumière des facteurs socioculturels qui n’apparaissent pas dans les applications d’ALAO grand public relatives aux langues majoritaires. Cette évaluation, souhaitent les auteurs, servira de guide dans celle des futurs programmes d’AILAO relatifs aux langues autochtones et autres langues minoritaires.
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Published In
Canadian Modern Language Review
Volume 74 • Number 3 • August 2018
Pages: 337 - 362
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© 2018 The Canadian Modern Language Review/La Revue canadienne des langues vivantes.
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Published online: 26 July 2018
Published in print: August 2018
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