TOEFL Speaking (for the AI Era)

How Mobile-Assisted Learning Improves TOEFL Speaking Proficiency

My Speaking Score (TOEFL Speaking Prep) Season 1 Episode 120

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In this episode of The TOEFL Speaking Prep Podcast for the AI Era, we explore the transformative role of mobile-assisted learning in enhancing English speaking proficiency, especially for the TOEFL. With insights drawn from a collection of 30 global studies, we examine how apps, social media, and even AI-powered tools are revolutionizing language learning.

Discover how mobile technology can provide instant feedback, personalized exercises, and immersive practice to help learners overcome common challenges like limited speaking opportunities and test anxiety. We discuss exciting innovations such as SpeechRater technology and AI tutors that act as virtual TOEFL coaches, offering tailored guidance to accelerate progress.

Whether you’re preparing for a high-stakes test or simply looking to improve your speaking skills, this episode dives deep into how the right combination of technology and human effort can lead to greater confidence, fluency, and success.

Tune in to uncover the power of mobile learning and the future of language education!

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All right, so we're diving into some really interesting research today about how mobile phones are changing the way people learn to speak English, especially for those of you thinking about taking tests like the TOEFL.

(0:36 - 0:50)
Yeah, exactly. We've got this stack of 30 studies, all pretty recent, looking at how using apps on your phone can help college students improve their English speaking skills. And get this, almost half of these studies are coming out of China.

(0:50 - 1:12)
Seriously, it's like they're way ahead of the curve when it comes to this whole mobile learning thing. So we've brought in our expert to help us unpack all of this. You know, what does this research actually mean and what can we learn from it, especially for anyone prepping for the TOEFL? Well, the fact that we're seeing so many studies, especially this big spike around 2021, really tells you something.

(1:12 - 1:25)
There's this huge global demand for strong English speaking skills. And you're right, tests like the TOEFL are a big part of that. They've become like this, this gateway to so many opportunities for jobs, for education, for everything.

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But here's the thing. The way English is traditionally taught, you know, with all the emphasis on reading and writing, it's just not cutting it anymore. It's not preparing students for the real world where you need to actually speak English, let alone for a high stakes test like the TOEFL.

(1:41 - 1:51)
It's like that thing you always hear about dumb English, you know, people who can read and write but can barely hold a conversation. I've heard that's a big issue for learners in China. Oh, yeah, absolutely.

(1:51 - 2:02)
Dumb English is a huge problem, especially in China's education system. So it makes sense that they're looking for new, more creative approaches. And mobile tech seems to be a promising avenue.

(2:02 - 2:08)
Okay, that makes sense. Now looking at these studies, I noticed a pattern. A lot of them use something called mixed methods.

(2:08 - 2:19)
What's the advantage of that? So mixed methods, it's all about getting the full picture right. Researchers don't just want to know if scores go up. They also want to know how learners feel about using these apps.

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You know, are they motivated? Are they more confident? Are they stressed out? It paints a much richer picture of the whole learning experience. I see. It's like looking at the whole person, not just the test scores.

(2:31 - 2:42)
But you know something else I noticed? A lot of these studies didn't even use a control group. Doesn't that make it hard to know if the app was really the reason for improvement? That's a good point. Without a control group, it is harder to be sure.

(2:43 - 2:54)
So yeah, you have to keep that in mind when you're looking at the results. So let's talk apps. There's everything from WhatsApp and WeChat, you know, the usual suspects, to even some virtual reality stuff.

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What stood out to you in terms of the types of apps they were using? Well, I thought it was really interesting how much they were relying on social media apps. Yeah. Which, you know, it makes sense.

(3:05 - 3:12)
It's a great way to practice informally. But it's like they're just scratching the surface. Think about what could be done with more personalized apps.

(3:12 - 3:29)
You know, apps that are really interactive and tailored to the learner, especially when it comes to something like the TOEFL. Ooh, now you've got me thinking. How could these apps help students really master the skills they need for the TOEFL speaking section? Exactly.

(3:29 - 3:47)
Because the TOEFL speaking tasks, they're not just about chatting with your friends. You have to be able to construct these complex arguments, you know, use specific vocabulary and do it all under pressure. There's this huge opportunity here to create apps that can help students practice for those very specific challenges.

(3:50 - 4:02)
At this level. Yeah. Now, speaking of assessment, I saw that they were mostly using either band scores, you know, like the TOEFL system, or this thing called the CF method, complexity, accuracy, fluency.

(4:03 - 4:15)
What's the difference? Well, band scores are good for getting a general sense of someone's proficiency, but they don't give you a ton of detail. The CF method, it digs a little deeper. It looks at all the little details of spoken language.

(4:15 - 4:27)
Like how complex your sentences are, the words you choose, even things like pauses and hesitations. So which one is better? Ah, that's a tricky one. It depends on what you're trying to achieve.

(4:27 - 4:41)
If you just want to know if someone can hit a certain TOEFL score band, then band scoring might be enough. But if you really want to understand how someone uses spoken English, all the nuances, then the CF method might be more useful. Makes sense.

(4:41 - 5:00)
So we've got this explosion of mobile-assisted language learning, especially in China. It seems like it has huge potential. But are we seeing that translate into better TOEFL speaking scores? That's the big question, isn't it? It looks promising for improving general speaking skills, but when it comes to high-stakes tests like the TOEFL, it's still early days.

(5:00 - 5:09)
We need a lot more research, a lot more development to figure out how to really use this technology for test prep. I see. So there's a lot more to explore here.

(5:09 - 5:30)
We need to find those more targeted and strategic applications, especially for the TOEFL. What kind of breakthroughs do you think we might see in the future? One really exciting area is AI-powered tools that can give learners really detailed and personalized feedback. Imagine an app that listens to you speak and then tells you exactly what you need to work on, maybe even gives you some custom-made exercises to help you improve.

(5:31 - 5:39)
Whoa, like a virtual TOEFL tutor. Tell me more. Well, think about technology like SpeechRater, which is already being used in some online English tests.

(5:39 - 5:54)
Now, imagine that, but personalized for your individual learning journey. It could find your weak spots, give you super-specific feedback, and even track your progress over time. So you'd have this clear roadmap to TOEFL success right there in your pocket.

(5:54 - 6:05)
That's incredible. It's not just about getting a higher score, though, is it? Right. It's about giving learners the skills and the confidence they need to actually use English in the real world, whether it's for their studies or their careers.

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That's where AI can be so powerful. Absolutely. And it's about making these kinds of advanced resources available to everyone.

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Exactly. We're talking about democratizing access to high-quality language learning. Anyone with a smartphone, anywhere in the world, could have these amazing tools to help them break down those language barriers.

(6:24 - 6:48)
It's pretty mind-blowing when you think about it. So how could this AI-powered learning actually lead to better scores on the TOEFL speaking section? By giving learners that focused, personalized practice that you just don't always get in a traditional classroom. Imagine getting instant feedback on your pronunciation, your grammar, your vocabulary as you're speaking, without having to wait for a teacher to grade your work.

(6:49 - 6:51)
Right there. Right then. Wow.

(6:51 - 7:06)
That would be amazing. The AI could even analyze the way you use transitions, idioms, complex sentences, all the things that impress TOEFL graders. And by keeping track of your progress, it could keep you motivated to keep practicing and improving.

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That kind of personalized feedback, and seeing that you're actually making progress, that could do wonders for a learner's confidence. Totally. Confidence is huge when it comes to speaking.

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But you know, even with the best AI in the world, it's still up to the learner to actually put in the work. You can't just sit back and expect the app to do everything for you. Of course not.

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You have to be willing to practice, to get feedback, to constantly challenge yourself to get better. So it's like a team effort, this partnership between the tech and the human learner. Exactly.

(7:35 - 7:57)
It's about giving learners the power to take control of their learning, but with this incredible AI support system right there with them. I love that idea. Speaking of potential, what about the future of AI and language learning? What else can we expect to see in the coming years? Well, look at how AI is changing everything else, right? Personalized recommendations, voice assistants, even self-driving cars.

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The possibilities for language learning are pretty much endless. We might even see AI-powered language partners that can have natural conversations with you, helping you get more fluent and confident in a more relaxed setting. Imagine that.

(8:10 - 8:23)
That would be awesome. And maybe even AI tools that can figure out your learning style, you know, whether you learn best by seeing things or hearing things or doing things, and then adjust the way it teaches you based on that. Wow, that's like having a language learning program that's custom designed just for you.

(8:24 - 8:42)
Anything else? Oh, how about real-time translation and interpretation powered by AI? Imagine traveling to another country and being able to talk to anyone, no matter what language they speak. Now that is mind-blowing. We're talking about a future where language is no longer a barrier to communication or understanding.

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It's really exciting. It is exciting. But with all this amazing technology, we have to be careful not to lose sight of the human side of things.

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AI is a tool, and it's up to us to use it responsibly and ethically. We need to make sure everyone has access to these technologies and that we're using them to enhance human connection, not replace it. It's about finding that balance between the technological and the human.

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So true. It's a brave new world of language learning out there. It's exciting, maybe a little scary, but definitely full of possibilities.

(9:11 - 9:23)
And it's a world we're all creating together as learners, as teachers, as developers. It's up to us to use these powerful tools to build a world that's more connected, more understanding and more equitable. That's a great thought to leave us with.

(9:24 - 9:52)
So we've covered a lot of ground today, from the global trends in mobile-assisted language learning to the challenges of TOEFL speaking prep, to the incredible potential of AI-powered tools. What are some key takeaways for our listeners as they continue their own English-speaking journeys? Well, first of all, embrace mobile learning. There are so many incredible resources out there right at your fingertips that can help you improve your speaking, whether you're getting ready for the TOEFL or just want to communicate more effectively.

(9:53 - 10:01)
Experiment, find what works for you and make it a part of your daily routine. Great advice. Second, don't be afraid to try new things.

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AI is changing the game when it comes to language learning. Check out the tools that use technologies like SpeechRater to get personalized feedback, figure out your weak spots and really accelerate your progress. And finally, never forget the power of hard work.

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Practice consistently, look for chances to speak and interact with others, and don't let the challenges get you down. It's about combining the power of tech with the power of human effort. And that's a pretty amazing combination.

(10:28 - 10:37)
I think that's a great way to put it. Well, on that note, we're going to wrap up this part of our deep dive. But don't worry, we'll be back soon to dive even deeper into the world of language and learning.

(10:38 - 10:49)
Until then, happy speaking, everyone. Happy speaking. You know, it really does feel like we're on the verge of a revolution in language learning, especially with AI coming into the picture.

(10:50 - 10:59)
Yeah. And it's not just about the algorithms and all the techie stuff. At the end of the day, it's about making sure everyone has access to good quality language learning, no matter who they are, where they come from.

(11:00 - 11:16)
That's what's so exciting about these innovations. I'm really intrigued by the idea of using SpeechRater technology to personalize language learning. It's like having a virtual TOEFL expert right there in your pocket, giving you feedback on every little detail of how you speak.

(11:16 - 11:31)
I mean, that can be huge, right? Especially for people who can't afford tutors or language schools. Absolutely. Imagine being able to practice those tough TOEFL speaking prompts and get feedback instantly on your pronunciation, your vocabulary, grammar, everything.

(11:31 - 11:41)
It would be like having a personal coach right there with you every step of the way. So it's not just generic feedback. It's actually finding your specific weaknesses and then giving you exercises to help you improve.

(11:42 - 11:55)
Like if you're struggling with academic vocabulary, the app could give you custom drills to help you learn new words. Exactly. And if you're having trouble with sentence structure, it could turn grammar practice into a game, making it more fun and engaging.

(11:56 - 12:09)
It's all about taking those parts of language learning that can feel boring or frustrating and turning them into something that's interactive and personalized. That is remarkable. It's like having your own personal language lab available anytime you need it.

(12:09 - 12:31)
But is this AI magic really possible? Or is it just a futuristic dream? Oh no, it's more than just a dream. AI is already making big changes in education and test prep. We're seeing these increasingly sophisticated tools that can analyze language, give you really insightful feedback, and personalize the learning experience in ways we couldn't have imagined just a few years ago.

(12:32 - 12:41)
So technology is definitely there and it's evolving quickly. It's exciting to think about what this could mean, not just for TOEFL prep, but for anyone learning any language. Absolutely.

(12:41 - 12:59)
AI has the potential to break down language barriers for learners all over the world. Just imagine, anyone with a smartphone anywhere in the world could have access to high quality learning resources powered by technology like SpeechReader. We're talking about making education and opportunities accessible to everyone globally.

(13:00 - 13:16)
That's incredibly powerful. But let's focus back on the TOEFL for a minute. How do we make sure that all this AI-powered learning actually translates into better speaking scores? The key is to give learners the kind of focused, personalized practice that traditional methods often miss.

(13:17 - 13:26)
Imagine getting real-time feedback as you speak on your pronunciation, your grammar, your vocabulary. No more waiting days or weeks for a teacher to grade your work. Exactly.

(13:27 - 13:40)
You get the feedback right away so you can make adjustments and improve as you go. That would be so helpful. An AI tutor could even analyze things like how you use transitions, idioms, complex sentences, all those things that TOEFL examiners are looking for.

(13:40 - 13:53)
It's about fine-tuning those little details of spoken English that can really make a difference in your score. And I imagine that kind of feedback could really boost a learner's confidence too, which is so important when it comes to speaking. Oh, absolutely.

(13:54 - 14:04)
Confidence is key. When learners feel good about their abilities, they're more willing to take risks, try new things with the language, and that's when they really start to improve. But let's be realistic.

(14:04 - 14:22)
Even with all this amazing AI technology, it's not a magic solution, is it? Learners still have to put in the effort, practice regularly, and really engage with the material. You hit the nail on the head. AI can give you the guidance, the feedback, the tools, but it's still up to the learner to make the most of them.

(14:23 - 14:30)
So it's a partnership, really. The technology is there to support and empower you, but you have to be willing to take charge of your learning. Exactly.

(14:30 - 14:47)
AI can help create a more engaging, personalized, and effective learning experience. But it's the human element, the drive, the dedication, the commitment that really makes the difference. It's like this amazing interplay between high-tech innovation and human effort, each one making the other one better.

(14:47 - 14:55)
It's almost like a dance. I love that analogy. It really is like a beautiful dance, and it has the potential to transform how we learn and use language.

(14:55 - 15:29)
Speaking of transformation, what other exciting developments might we see in AI-powered language learning down the road? What's next on the horizon? Well, we've already talked about personalized feedback and targeted practice, but AI could also change the way we interact with language, making it more immersive and engaging. Imagine AI-powered language partners that you can have natural conversations with, just chatting and practicing in a relaxed and interactive way. Wow, that would be a game-changer, especially for people who don't have access to native English speakers or don't have many opportunities to practice in real life.

(15:30 - 15:45)
Exactly. And who knows? Maybe we'll even see AI tools that can figure out how you learn best, whether you're a visual learner, an auditory learner, a kinesthetic learner, and then the app can tailor the content and activities to fit your specific needs. That's amazing.

(15:45 - 16:05)
It's like having a custom-designed language learning program that changes and adapts as you learn. Any other possibilities you're thinking about? How about this? Real-time translation and interpretation powered by AI. Imagine being able to travel to a foreign country and have a conversation with anyone, regardless of what language they speak.

(16:05 - 16:14)
That is mind-blowing. We're talking about breaking down communication barriers on a global scale, understanding each other better, connecting across cultures. It's incredible.

(16:14 - 16:25)
It really is. But with all this incredible technology, it's so important that we don't forget about the human element. AI is a powerful tool, but it's up to us to use it in a responsible and ethical way.

(16:26 - 16:36)
That's a really important point. As we get more and more into this world of high-tech language learning, we need to make sure we're using it to enhance human connection and understanding, not to replace it. Exactly.

(16:36 - 16:55)
We have to make sure these technologies are available to everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, and we have to use them to create a world that's more equitable and inclusive. It's about using the power of technology to empower people, to bring us closer together, to create a deeper sense of shared humanity. That's beautifully said.

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And I really believe we can achieve that if we approach these advancements with a sense of responsibility, a clear purpose, and a commitment to making sure the human element is always at the center. Well said. So, it really is a brave new world of language learning out there.

(17:10 - 17:27)
Exciting, maybe a little scary, but definitely full of possibilities. And it's a world that we're all creating together. As learners, as educators, as developers, we have a responsibility to use these powerful tools to build a more connected, more understanding, and more equitable world.

(17:27 - 17:43)
That's an inspiring thought to take with us as we continue to explore the world of language and learning. It is. We've covered so much today, from global trends in mobile-assisted language learning, to the challenges of TOFA-speaking preparation, to the amazing potential of AI-powered tools.

(17:43 - 17:57)
We've seen how these technologies can personalize learning, provide targeted feedback, and really empower learners to achieve their goals. But in all the excitement, it's important to remember that technology is just a tool. How effective it is really depends on how we use it.

(17:57 - 18:10)
It's about finding that balance between technological innovation and human effort. We need to empower learners to take control of their own learning, but also give them the support and guidance they need to succeed. That's it.

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It's about creating this dynamic partnership between human potential and technological advancement, working together to create a future where language is no longer a barrier to communication, understanding, and connection. And that's a future worth working towards. Absolutely.

(18:25 - 18:50)
So as you continue on your own English-speaking journey, whether you're getting ready for the TOEFL or just want to improve your communication skills, remember that you have the power to learn, to grow, and to connect with the world around you. Embrace the tools that are out there, experiment with different approaches, and never be afraid to push yourself to new heights. And remember, the most important thing in any language learning journey is your own passion and dedication.

(18:50 - 19:01)
Well said. It's about harnessing the power of technology, but also nurturing that human drive to learn and connect. And that, that's a powerful combination.

(19:02 - 19:09)
We'll be back next time to dive even deeper into the world of language and learning. Until then, happy speaking, everyone. Happy speaking.

(19:10 - 19:19)
It's really amazing to think about how much things have changed in the world of language learning, especially with the rise of AI. It really is. It's incredible how far we've come.

(19:19 - 19:35)
We've gone from, you know, those traditional textbooks and classrooms to these incredibly sophisticated apps and platforms that can give you personalized feedback and really tailor the whole learning experience to your individual needs. And it seems like it's just the beginning. It really does.

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It's like having an entire language learning ecosystem right there in your pocket. And I think the best part is that it's making high quality language learning accessible to, well, pretty much anyone. Exactly.

(19:46 - 20:04)
It's not just for those who can afford expensive tutors or language courses anymore. Anyone with a smartphone, anywhere in the world, can access these incredible resources that can help them improve their speaking, get ready for tests like the TOEFL, connect with the world in new ways. It's pretty amazing when you think about the potential impact.

(20:04 - 20:15)
I mean, this could really change how we communicate globally, how we understand each other. Absolutely. But as we've talked about, technology is just one piece of the puzzle.

(20:15 - 20:18)
Right. It's not the whole story. It's a powerful tool.

(20:18 - 20:22)
Right. But you have to know how to use it. Learners still need to be engaged.

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They need to put in the effort. They need to practice consistently and, you know, be ready to embrace the challenges that come with learning a new language. It's that human element that's so important.

(20:33 - 20:41)
The drive, the dedication, the passion for learning. Those are the things that really make the difference. It's a partnership, then, between human potential and technological innovation.

(20:42 - 20:55)
Each one helps the other one be better. I like that. So, as we wrap up our deep dive into the world of mobile-assisted language learning, what are some of the key takeaways for our listeners? What should they keep in mind as they start their own English-speaking journey? Okay.

(20:55 - 21:03)
So, first of all, embrace the power of mobile learning. Really explore all the amazing resources that are out there. There are so many.

(21:04 - 21:11)
Seriously, there are apps for everything. Building vocabulary, grammar practice, pronunciation, even conversation simulation. Yeah, you name it.

(21:11 - 21:17)
Exactly. Don't be afraid to try different things and find what works best for you. Okay, great advice.

(21:17 - 21:30)
Second, AI can be a really powerful tool. Explore those tools that use technology like SpeechRater to get personalized feedback. It can help you pinpoint your weaknesses and make progress much faster.

(21:30 - 21:36)
It's like having a personal coach. Right. And lastly, never underestimate the power of your own effort and dedication.

(21:37 - 21:47)
Practice regularly, look for opportunities to speak and interact with others, and don't be afraid of challenges. Learning a new language is a journey. It's not always easy, but it's so rewarding.

(21:47 - 21:56)
You said it. It's about using technology, but it's also about that human drive to learn and connect. And that combination, that's what makes all the difference.

(21:56 - 22:05)
Couldn't have said it better myself. Well, that brings us to the end of our deep dive. We hope you've enjoyed exploring the world of mobile-assisted language learning with us.

(22:06 - 22:15)
We'll be back next time with another fascinating topic from the world of language and learning. Until then, keep exploring, keep learning, and keep speaking. Happy speaking.

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