Towards a digital library for language learning

Abstract

Digital libraries have untapped potential for supporting language teaching and learning. Although the Internet at large is widely used for language education, it has critical disadvantages that can be overcome in a more controlled environment. This article describes a language learning digital library, and a new metadata set that characterizes linguistic features commonly taught in class as well as textual attributes used for selection of suitable exercise material. On the system is built a set of eight learning activities that together offer a classroom and self-study environment with a rich variety of interactive exercises, which are automatically generated from digital library content. The system has been evaluated by usability experts, language teachers, and students.