TipTopTalk! Mobile application for speech training using minimal pairs and gamification

Abstract

This demonstration describes the TipTopTalk! mobile application, a serious game for foreign language (L2) pronunciation training, based on the minimal-pairs technique. Multiple Spoken Language Technologies (SLT) such as speech recognition and text-to-speech conversion are integrated in our system. User’s interaction consists in a sequence of challenges along time, for instance exposure, discrimination and production exercises. The application implements gamification resources with the aim of promoting continued practice. A specific feedback is also given to the user in order to avoid the performance drop detected after the protracted use of the tool. The application can be used in different languages, such as Spanish, Portuguese (European and Brazilian), English, Chinese, and German.