My main area of interest is CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning), the integration of NLP/CL resources in CALL, CALL for Minority and Endangered Languages and application of Software Engineering techniques in CALL.
NLP/CL resources and CALL
Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Computational Linguistics (CL)
resources can be very useful in CALL. However, there are many
challenges to integrating them successfully in CALL.
I am interested in how NLP/CL can be used in CALL, especially
from a practical point of view. I am interested in how such
resources can be "normalised" in the classroom context.
CALL for Minority and Endangered Languages
CALL materials have been developed and used for the world’s
major languages (e.g. English, French, German).
However, CALL development can be complex and require
multi-disciplinary skills including linguistic, pedagogical
and programming skills. There are over 6,000 languages in
the world today but the vast majority of them are in danger
of disappearing. I have developed a template for the
development of a CALL program for Endangered Languages, that
enables people working with Endangered Languages to develop
CALL materials.
Nawat
I have used the template to produce a CALL
program for the Nawat (Pipil) language of El Salvador.
There is an online version of the course both in English and
Spanish (
Irish
I am interested in the use of CALL for Irish, particularly in the Primary
School context (for students, teachers and parents).
Software Engineering and CALL
I am interested in the application of Software Engineering techniques
in the design and development of CALL resources.
I am also interested in the learning process, in general, and CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction).
Last updated: 10 February, 2010