Assessing the Learning Outcomes of Robot-Assisted Second Language Learning

Abstract

Robot-assisted language learning (RALL) explores the role of educational humanoid robots in the learning of first and second language(s). Today, there is no definitive answer as to its effectiveness in the long run. Some studies report that adult L2 learners benefit from RALL in learning words while children enjoy only small gains from vocabulary instruction. The kind of feedback humanoid robots can provide in an ongoing conversation merely goes beyond facial expressions or words of encouragement. The need to upgrade the skills of educational robots and concerns with data privacy and abusive behavior towards robots are some challenges faced in RALL today. Plus, not a single study examined the role of RALL in assessing the reading abilities and pragmatic knowledge of L2 learners. This chapter focuses on the effectiveness of RALL in assessing word learning, pragmatics, grammar, listening, speaking, and reading skills in an L2 and discusses its reflection for future classroom applications.