actfl conference presentation
TRANSCRIPT
Prometheus Information TechnologiesTechnical Problems- Human Solutions
Mission statement: Represent the human element in all aspects of software development.
The problem
Language-learning software written for a mass-market captures a narrow range of human speech.
Use of variables in code means software can’t accurately capture how well the average student is speaking the language. 20XX 20XX 20XX 20XX
The problem
‘Correct’ scores lead to a false belief in fluency by the student.
Real-world use shows the limitations of language-learning software, as students are unable to converse with native and/or fluent speakers.
20XX 20XX 20XX 20XX
The solution
Larger tables of stored responses, and revised code to compare inputs.Conversion to binary waves for comparison will yield more accurate results, and greater fluency.
Prometheus’ TeamLanguage professionals, audio engineers, and software specialists make the
difference
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Milestones Benchmark testing of cascading tables and wave conversions in Beta version.
January 2016Development of language tables
March 2016Test conversion of tables into binary waves
April 2016Stored value comparisons
July 2016First language tests for graduates of new program
October 2016Anaysis of results and initial modifications.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
How it works
Step 1Target phrases are compiled into cascading tables and assigned a category
Step 2Tables are converted into binary and tagged by category for retrieval and comparison
Step 3Student input is converted into binary, tagged by response, and compared against cascading table until highest correlation reached.
The technology:Enhanced Audio Recording and wave conversion, plus mass data storage and tagging.
‘Under the Hood’Prometheus’ model does what no other system currently does.
Although the up-front commitment is substantial, in time and resources, the end results more than justify the initial outlay.
Student InputFemale, high-pitched, fast pace voice
SoftwareInput routed by tag to appropriate set
of tables. Wave is analyzed against responses.
MatchResponse from female, high-pitched,
fast pace is found, compared to input, analysis for correlation conducted. Feedback on closeness of match
provided to student.
Why now?Demand for foreign language skills continues to grow, but current technology can’t provide qualified speakers. A new method is needed for success.
Appendix
Show the audience you anticipated their questions. Leave room for Q&A, but use the Appendix as a way to show that you both thought about those questions and have solid answers with supporting information. Let the audience test their understanding of the problem and the solution you’ve outlined - questions give them a chance to talk themselves into your approach, and give you a chance to show mastery of the subject.