Open AccessAn Evaluation of Chatbots as Software Aids to Learning English as a Second Language
Author(s) -
David Coniam
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
eurocall newsletter
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1695-2618
DOI - 10.4995/eurocall.2008.16353
Subject(s) - chatbot , perspective (graphical) , computer science , avatar , conversation , point (geometry) , usability , interface (matter) , software , world wide web , multimedia , human–computer interaction , psychology , artificial intelligence , communication , geometry , mathematics , bubble , maximum bubble pressure method , parallel computing , programming language
'Chatbot' programs are pieces of software that can hold a conversation, or interact, in English. This paper explores the potential of chatbots for ESL (English as a Second Language) learning from a pedagogical perspective. From the command-line days of Eliza, chatbots have matured considerably – to the point where many chatbots now involve an avatar interface, with speech recognition also becoming available as a feature. The paper evaluates six chatbots currently available either online or for purchase. The evaluation examines chatbots from the perspective of their interfaces as a human-looking or sounding partner to chat with, as well as their usability as pieces of software suitable for ESL learners. To put some of these issues in perspective and provide insights into their use, the paper also reports on the use of some chatbots in the ESL classroom. The paper concludes with an analysis of chatbots currently available, noting that while chatbots have matured considerably since the early days of Eliza, they still have a long way to go before they can interact with students in the way that researchers such as Atwell (1999) envisage.