Application of student-centered speech-enabled CALL system for EFL students: A case study

Abstract

Many studies show that “computers-assisted language learning” (CALL) systems can assist “English-as-a-Foreign-Language” (EFL) learners to effectively learn English. However, the fixed content in CALL systems does not adaptively meet the actual needs of the learners. Therefore, this study develops a student-centered speech-enabled CALL system intended for an EFL class in a vocational senior high school. For this system, EFL learners can construct learning materials based on their individual needs for practicing listening and speaking. After a four-week learning activity, most of the participating students offered positive reactions to the developed system. Despite the teacher was unavailable, these students still obtained assistance for enhancing their English listening and speaking skills. Moreover, the participating students successfully constructed their learning materials for various self-practice based on their learning needs. In sum, EFL learners have more opportunities to expose themselves to an English-based learning environment through the developed system.