Abstract:
Corpus Linguistics (CL), a sub-discipline under the strategic area of Digital Humanities in LML and FHM, is a systematic and empirical approach to language studies and education. CL involves analyzing a vast collection of texts to reveal language patterns, usage, and variations, thereby enhancing our understanding of language use in context. At EdUHK, over 600 students enroll in at least 12 linguistic/language studies courses involving the CL methodology each year. Moreover, with the advocate of Corpus-based Language Pedagogy (CBLP) at LML, CL is also applied to English teaching in primary and secondary schools. Corpus literacy (e.g. corpus search skills, corpus analysis skills and understanding of corpora) becomes crucial in language studies and education.
However, university students often encounter difficulties in familiarizing multiple and complex concepts in CL and the utilization of corpora/corpus tools. Students often struggle to maintain motivation and interest when compiling and analyzing million-word corpora for course assessments and research purposes (Poole, 2020). Furthermore, the implementation of CBLP encounters obstacles, including the absence of teaching materials that are specifically designed for corpus-based instruction, as well as insufficient training for pre- and in-service teachers (Callies, 2019). These barriers limit the advantages brought by CL in language teaching and learning in both face-to-face and virtual settings.
Code:
T0288
Principal Project Supervisors:
Keywords provided by authors:
Start Date:
15 Apr 2024
End Date:
14 Jun 2024
Status:
Ongoing
Result:
This project creates a mobile app that digitalizes and gamifies the learning process of CL to enhance corpus literacy of students and teachers. To bolster students’ learning interest, [1] the app features animated characters who interact with users, introduce them to key concepts of CL and offer gamified exercises. [2] The app also allows students to compile corpora for their research work through their smartphones and tablets conveniently. [3] Furthermore, a framework has been developed for virtual learning that incorporates this app, AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT and Poe), online corpora (e.g. British National Corpus and Corpus of Contemporary American English) and virtual learning platforms (e.g. Zoom). To support CBLP, [4] this mobile app assists pre- and in-service teachers in familiarizing and implementing a corpus-based approach to teaching English. The app has been promoted to universities, primary schools, and secondary schools through the LML website and social media.
Impact:
This project greatly benefits language major university students and English learners by facilitating their corpus literacy and proficiency in CL, thereby improving their research competence, language proficiency and communication skills. Moreover, it enhances teachers’ capability to implement CBLP. The proposed mobile app and teaching deliverables generated by this project will certainly contribute to the implementation of virtual learning activities integrated with AI technology.
Financial Year:
2023-24
Type:
TDG