Avatars play a significant role in Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered education, supported by various human-computer interactions and second language acquisition theories. AI avatars have become increasingly anthropomorphic and realistic with advancements in speech synthesis, speech-driven lip-syncing, and speech-to-facial animation. D-ID Studio…

The emergence of the Metaverse, supported by innovative technologies, especially extended reality, has opened up new possibilities for various fields of education. Some disciplines like STEM have already derived significant benefits from the immersive, interactive, and authentic learning opportunities afforded by the Metaverse. In contrast, only…

This paper is part 5 of a series of workshops that examines the properties of some simple models of vocabulary networks. While previous workshops dealt with activating words in the network, this workshop focuses on vocabulary loss. We will simulate two possible ways of modelling attrition: (a) explicitly turning active words OFF, and (b) raising…

This article both describes and explains the nature of system simulations--the generation of (non-)numeric models representing characteristics, behaviors, or functions of physical or abstract systems/processes under study. For ease of presentation, I first present some of the most pressing theoretical-practical considerations concerning…

Purpose: This paper aims to present a lesson that showcases how artificial intelligence (AI) tools may be chiefly used in L2 language classrooms to design culture-focussed telecollaboration tasks and aid their completion by students. Design/methodology/approach: The paper begins by reviewing traditional approaches and guidance for developing…

This paper considers the opportunities and challenges posed to formal second language education given the penetration of digital technologies in young people's daily lives. This paper broadly discusses the issues of information technology (IT) infrastructure, classroom management and IT use restrictions in relations to language learning. The paper…

This paper is part 3 of a series of workshops that examine the properties of some simple models vocabulary networks. This Workshop focusses on how the vocabulary network responds when words become easier to activate. The Workshop is linked to an on-line practice room where readers can explore these processes for themselves.

Generative AI offers significant opportunities for language learning. Tools like ChatGPT provide second language practice through chats in written or voice formats, with the learner specifying through prompts conversational parameters. AI can be instructed to give corrective feedback and create practice exercises. Using AI, instructors can build…

Although the Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA TESOL) practicum course is meant to initiate preservice teachers (PSTs) into the TESOL profession, it is not uncommon for PSTs to feel a high level of stress as they prepare to teach their first solo lesson. This article proposes the implementation of mixed-reality…

The use of augmented reality (AR) in teaching English as a second language is examined in this article. Traditional language teaching techniques sometimes fall short of engaging students and offering real-world applications, which results in boredom and slow development. Through the use of augmented reality (AR) technology, digital content can be…

The use of technology, such as Virtual Reality (VR), has started to take place in K-16 classrooms. Research indicates potential advantages of embedding VR into the curriculum in terms of higher motivation, increased self-expression, better achievement in content knowledge, and improved linguistic knowledge and higher order thinking skills. As a…

The all-encompassing term "Medical Spanish" references the Spanish used by healthcare professionals. Medical Spanish courses have gained traction as the Spanish-speaking population in the U.S. continues to grow. Consequently, demand for courses in Medical Spanish and other areas of Spanish for Specific Purposes (SSP), a subfield of…

New technologies often influence the ways in which one shares linguistic experiences. One such technology, Augmented Reality (AR), may initiate concepts used in language learning through digital storytelling. This paper describes an exploratory research project based on Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) AR digital storytelling which investigated…

This book provides strategies, tools, and best practices for incorporating microlearning in English language teaching. It aims to help teachers create and deliver microlearning mechanisms that are optimized for mobile learning. This book also draws on relevant literature and the author's first-hand experience designing microlearning activities for…

In this commentary, we describe the English language placement adaptations we were required to make due to the world-wide COVID-19 pandemic. It includes a brief description of our placement test battery which was adapted to address our institution's move to a remote teaching/learning mode. A discussion of the major challenges we experienced, their…