New digital kitchen could revolutionise language learning

A new kitchen that delivers cooking instructions in French in a similar manner to a car sat nav could revolutionise the way languages are learnt. Special motion sensors in the kitchen equipment determine whether or not tasks have been completed and the instructions are carefully prepared to incorporate the basics of grammar and improve proficiency.

Developed by scientists and language experts at Newcastle University and based on the proven technique of Task Based Language Learning (TBLL), the novel approach takes learning out of the classroom and into a practical and rewarding environment. The user selects a French recipe and follows the instructions given. An English translation can be requested at any point, and the system monitors their progress and provides feedback if they go wrong.

“This really brings foreign culture to life,” said Paul Seedhouse, Professor of Education & Applied Linguistics. “Students are able to learn aspects of the language while performing a meaningful task and experiencing the cultural aspect of learning to cook a French dish at the same time.

“You never really understand something properly until you do it for yourself, and one of the universal problems of classroom language teaching is that students are often rehearsing, rather than actually using the language.

“Our overriding objective is to make language learning more enjoyable, more effective and, by linking it to the development of another valuable life skill, more educational too.”

This is especially pertinent since the UK lags behind other countries in terms of language learning – and a change in this area would be beneficial economically. However, an EU grant of €400K has also been obtained to develop English, German, Spanish, Italian, Finnish and Catalan versions of the kitchen. Designed to be used by schools and universities, the technology could even potentially be installed in people’s own homes.

Three portable versions of the kitchen, which comprises of a computer and a set of sensor-enabled pieces of kitchen equipment, are now being prepared to be installed in Newcastle College and at Institut Français, a London-based charity dedicated to teaching the French language. Portable versions will also be available for road shows touring schools.

Click here to see the full press release.

Published: Monday, 24th October 2011 by Ellen Haggan