Automatic audio indexing and audio playback speed control as tools for language learning

Abstract

The Gong system has been developed for web based communication. It supports synchronous and asynchronous audio communication and can be embedded in other learning management systems. This paper discusses two novel features which are targeted at language learners using the system. The first is the ability to automatically index an audio recording. After the indexing has taken place the user is able to select one or several words and hear just those words spoken in isolation. The second is the ability to vary the playback speed of any recorded message. The technical details of their implementation as well as pedagogical use of these features are discussed. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2006.