Voice-Based computer mediated communication for individual practice to increase speaking proficiency: Construction and pilot study

Abstract

This paper examines the effects of an asynchronous blog system on speaking proficiency for EFL learners in Japan. The novelty of the system is its incorporation of Web Speech API, which leads to higher performance compared with the use of web applications for classroom purposes. On the basis of a questionnaire survey conducted as pilot research, we demonstrate that the system has potential to improve speaking proficiency and increases the motivation of less motivated learners.