Practising verbal maritime communication with computer dialogue systems using automatic speech recognition (My Practice session)

This My Practice session presents a novel online tool for practising verbal communication in a maritime setting. It is based on low-fi ChatBot simulation exercises which employ computer-based dialogue systems. The ChatBot exercises are equipped with an automatic speech recognition engine specifically designed for maritime communication. The speech input and output functionality enables learners to communicate with the computer freely and spontaneously. The exercises replicate real communicative scenarios on board ships thus catering for a synchronous, constructivist learning environment to improve students' listening and speaking skills. The My Practice session will introduce conference delegates to the different exercises and familiarise them with the technology so that they will be able to integrate this innovative technology in their respective teaching environments.