TacticalLanguage Project Status

November 4, 2003 -- We have developed an early version of a computer-based trainer for Lebanese Arabic language and culture, and have deployed it at West Point. Learners communicate with animated characters representing local people, in a simulated mission scenario implemented on top of a well-known computer game (Unreal Tournament). The software utilizes advanced speech recognition and learner modeling technology to support face-to-face conversation while providing learners with real-time feedback and assistance. COL Stephen LaRocca of the Department of Foreign Languages at West Point says of the Tactical Language Training System: “ We here in the Department of Foreign Languages are very excited about the TLTS and the new capabilities that it can provide to military language learners, including our cadets. This system allows learners to rehearse real-world tasks in the most realistic environment technology can provide. It is available whenever the learner is available, and activities can be repeated as often as the learner desires. The TLTS focuses on the production of language by students, and has the potential to greatly expand speaking opportunities in a meaningful, motivating context.” The Center for Technology Enabled Language Learning (CTELL) at West Point plans to conduct evaluations of the system with cadets, and use the system to collect data on learner language use. August 14, 2004 ­ We tested the current system at Ft. Bragg for a week. A total of 23 subjects took part in the test. The subjects were assigned to four groups, each of which used a different version of the program. Two of the groups used the Mission Practice Environment (the interactive game), two did not. Two groups received feedback from the pedagogical agent, two did not. All versions except the one without the game and without feedback were rated highly by the learners. The complete system was rated as being comparable to one-on-one tutoring with a human tutor.

November 4, 2003 -- We have developed an early version of a computer-based trainer for Lebanese Arabic language and culture, and have deployed it at West Point. Learners communicate with animated characters representing local people, in a simulated mission scenario implemented on top of a well-known computer game (Unreal Tournament). The software utilizes advanced speech recognition and learner modeling technology to support face-to-face conversation while providing learners with real-time feedback and assistance. COL Stephen LaRocca of the Department of Foreign Languages at West Point says of the Tactical Language Training System: “ We here in the Department of Foreign Languages are very excited about the TLTS and the new capabilities that it can provide to military language learners, including our cadets. This system allows learners to rehearse real-world tasks in the most realistic environment technology can provide. It is available whenever the learner is available, and activities can be repeated as often as the learner desires. The TLTS focuses on the production of language by students, and has the potential to greatly expand speaking opportunities in a meaningful, motivating context.” The Center for Technology Enabled Language Learning (CTELL) at West Point plans to conduct evaluations of the system with cadets, and use the system to collect data on learner language use.

October 4, 2003 -- Tactical Language Project developed prototypes of the major components of the envisioned Tactical Language system for Levantine Arabic, including schoolhouse exercises and simulated missions. We demonstrated the feasibility of using automated speech recognition technology for communicating with the system, integrated both with schoolhouse exercises and simulated missions realized in a game-like environment. We also conducted initial studies of the feasibility of automatically generating language processing tools from script materials.