This study explores the integration of advanced AI technologies, including emotion detection and adaptive learning systems, to enhance second language acquisition among 274 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Utilizing a pretest-posttest randomized control trial, the research evaluates the effects of AI-enhanced interventions on…

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of Duolingo's game-based methodology in improving speaking proficiency within mobile language learning, while also examining the specific attributes and strategies contributing to its success and exploring implications for language education and learner optimization. Given the growing…

While mobile app-mediated communication between children and members of their family represents a substantial part of contemporary family communication and language input, we still know very little about the role of these technologies in family language policy (FLP). With an explorative questionnaire survey, the current study set out to examine…

Gamification in second language acquisition research is a popular topic, but there are few empirical comparative studies in the literature. This quasi-experimental mixed-approach study enrolled 77 Japanese university EFL learners to enable a comparison between two digital vocabulary flashcard learning software conditions carefully designed by the…

A qualitative documentary research of software and multimedia artificial intelligences was chosen to enable the ontological understanding of the object of study that aims to explore the potential for learning through Artificial Intelligence (AI). Besides, it is shown how AI, as a novel component within the digital education landscape, contributes…

With the advancement of educational technologies, computer-assisted language learning (CALL) tools, like online dictionaries, are essential for acquiring a second language, especially new vocabulary. There has been no empirical focus on the usage of "Gabra" online dictionary in learning Maltese, with a specific focus on international…

The Child Language Data Exchange System (CHILDES), created by Brain MacWhinney and Catherine Snow in 1984, is one of the earliest Open Science and data sharing initiatives in child language development research, and probably in developmental psychology and the behavioral sciences more generally. It is the cornerstone of TalkBank--a repository of…

Before they even talk, infants become sensitive to the speech sounds of their native language and recognize the auditory form of an increasing number of words. Traditionally, these early perceptual changes are attributed to an emerging knowledge of linguistic categories such as phonemes or words. However, there is growing skepticism surrounding…

This longitudinal study explores how the language proficiency of eight (N = 8) US-affiliated university students developed relative to their smartphone usage during study abroad (SA) in Paris. Phone usage was tracked daily with Space, proficiency weekly using NCSSFL-ACTFL Can-Do statements, and language use monthly via a Language Engagement…

This research explores the impact of ChatGPT, an AI tool, on ESL students' writing proficiency at a Saudi Arabian university. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 130 students showed a significant positive effect on their writing. A focus group interview with six students highlighted opportunities such as personalized feedback, language skill…

The paper describes the transformational role technology plays in the management and transmission of heritage (minority) languages (HL) in two UK-based multilingual families. Data were collected in the form of a language background survey, parental interviews, and recordings of interactional events within the home. Findings suggest that parents…

Early Expressive language exposure is associated with child language acquisition and advantageous long-term developmental outcomes. The measurement of expressive language in a child's immediate environment is critical to the early identification of children who are at risk of low expressive language exposure, such as children with language delays…

Language is one of the hallmarks of intelligence, demanding explanation in a theory of human cognition. However, language presents unique practical challenges for quantitative empirical research, making many linguistic theories difficult to test at naturalistic scales. Artificial neural network language models (LMs) provide a new tool for studying…

Contrastive focus, conveyed by prosodic cues, marks important information. Studies have shown that 6-year-olds learning English and Japanese can use contrastive focus during online sentence comprehension: focus used in a "contrastive context" facilitates the identification of a target referent (speeding up processing), whereas focus used…

Since the release of advanced Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT in the winter of 2022, educators have been challenged to integrate AI in educational contexts without adequate preparation. This multimethod study aims to provide valuable insights into how students and teachers can make effective, responsible use of AI tools for writing.…