Text-To-Speech technology for Arabic language learners

The use of speech technologies in language learning has been the focus of a number of recent studies, they are widely been discussed as an assistive technology to help language learners and to compensate writing difficulties. However, according to prior reviews, they are not being employed widely in educational institutions, as they ought to be, as long as they represent technical challenges that still need to be taken up. The aim of this work is to demonstrate some of the possibilities that Text To Speech offers for language learners with a particular focus on Arabic language. For this purpose a web-based assistive platform based on a Text To Speech API was developed and used during a self-directed dictation exercise. It enables the users to have their text read out loud as they write. This aural feedback will enable them to auto detect their mistakes, make the perceived corrections and re-listen again. The study was conducted on a sample of 30 pupils of both sexes of third, fourth and fifth grades. Overall, the tests revealed a significant improvement on their writing skills; the participants were able to locate and correct a high percentage of their mistakes under speech synthesis vocalization.