Shall We Practice Speaking English with Pengsoo... 'AI PengTalk' Launches on the 29th

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[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] The Ministry of Education and EBS will launch the AI-based English speaking practice system 'AI PengTalk' service starting on the 29th.

AI PengTalk is an English speaking practice service developed to improve basic communication skills by providing an English speaking environment for students in grades 3 to 6 of elementary school, utilizing the popular character Pengsoo. It will be operated for about 172,000 students from 595 schools recruited through the first application.

AI PengTalk offers one-on-one conversation practice between AI and students using voice recognition and natural language processing technologies. It also provides pronunciation correction services that allow free practice of words, sentences, and dialogues extracted from the 2015 revised English curriculum, five types of elementary English textbooks, and EBS English education materials on a mobile basis.

It can be used during regular English classes for speaking activities and also for students' self-directed learning at home or elsewhere after school. It supports the Learning Management System (LMS) and Class Management System (CMS) to provide students, parents, and teachers with individual learning status, analysis of learning results, and learning consultation content (feedback).

The system is designed as a game-based learning method that allows students to practice English speaking on their own with Pengsoo and feel motivated by earning rewards according to their learning volume.

According to the pilot school operation results by the Ministry of Education, students mainly used the practice system during morning classes or after 8 p.m. during self-study and homework. Pre- and post-analysis of students who used the pilot system showed that it was effective in increasing students' interest, confidence, and self-directed learning time.

The Ministry of Education and EBS will recruit additional schools using the service at the end of each month and gradually expand the system operation to elementary schools nationwide.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Yoo Eun-hye said, "The AI English speaking practice system is expected to enhance students' self-directed learning capabilities and reduce disparities in English learning environments," adding, "We will continuously support teacher training to ensure stable operation in the field and strive to provide an equitable English learning environment for elementary students nationwide through system advancement."

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