My Personal Review of ELSA Application

My Experience with the ELISA Language Learning App

Janpha Thadphoothon

I have been tasked with testing a smartphone application called ELSA (English Language Speech Assistant). This presents a unique opportunity to delve into the broader context of foreign language learning and the role of media in this process.

Firstly, one may ask what ELSA is. ELSA is  an AI app. ELSA stands for English Language Speech Assistant, is a popular tool designed to help users improve their English pronunciation and speaking skills.  Elsa Speak is an AI tutor to help people improve their English speaking skills. Their product uses AI to analyze your pronunciation and intonation and provide personalized feedback  to help you speak English more confidently.

Here is another definition, a bit formal:

ELSA Speak is the only English language learning and communication app that can help you correct pronunciation errors to every syllable thanks to Artificial Intelligence capable of exclusive voice recognition voted Top 5 in the World. Based on the results of your pronunciation test, Elsa also offers an individual learning path that is best suited for each learner, saving you time and improving your learning efficiency.

Source: https://elsaspeak.com/en

Additionally, all learning activities are automated and conducted online, with no human teachers involved. Users can handle their learning independently through the app. However, if they encounter technical problems, they can contact the support desk via email.

ELSA Speak is an English speaking and communication app that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze and provide automated feedback to users. Therefore, there won’t be any online classes or exchanges with native speakers/teachers offline! 

Currently, there are two learning modes for pronunciation and conversation lessons.

For Regular Mode: Elsa’s scoring system will be based on the accuracy of the underlined sound to guide learners to practice specific sounds and groups of sounds.

For Advanced Mode: The grading system will analyze and evaluate your entire pronunciation of the word(s) so that students can identify which part of the word was mispronounced.

Media Use and Language Learning

ELSA is fascinating, but the evolution of media use in language education is also interesting. Media is a technology that helps share messages for learning. It makes it easier for teachers to explain lessons and helps get students interested in learning. Media can be anything that delivers information in a way that grabs students' attention, helps them understand, and keeps them engaged. In teaching, media is used to meet learning goals by making lessons more interesting and clear. In today’s world, media isn’t just books; it includes many modern tools like apps that are more engaging and effective for teaching speaking skills.

Allow me to share with you my personal experience. When I was young, instructional media were rare and hard to find.

When I was a teenager, (sorry, I do not have a photo to show you at the moment) I often listened to Voice of America (VOA) to practice my English listening and speaking skills. VOA broadcasts provided a rich source of spoken English, covering a wide range of topics from current events to cultural stories. This variety not only helped me improve my language skills but also kept me engaged with interesting and diverse content. The clear and articulate speech of the VOA presenters served as an excellent model for pronunciation and intonation, which I tried to emulate.

Listening to VOA was particularly useful because it exposed me to different accents and dialects of English. This exposure was crucial in helping me understand the nuances of the language and how it is spoken in different parts of the world. Additionally, the stories and reports on VOA were often accompanied by transcripts, allowing me to read along and reinforce my understanding of the spoken words. This dual approach of listening and reading helped cement new vocabulary and phrases in my mind.

Moreover, VOA introduced me to a plethora of fascinating news and stories from around the globe. I learned about various cultures, significant global events, and intriguing places I had never heard of before. This not only broadened my knowledge but also sparked a deep interest in world affairs and different cultures. The educational aspect of VOA was invaluable, as it combined language learning with knowledge expansion.

In addition to listening to VOA, I also made it a habit to read books and newspapers in English. This further enhanced my language skills by exposing me to different writing styles, vocabulary, and contexts. Reading books allowed me to dive deep into complex narratives and character dialogues, which improved my comprehension and analytical skills. Newspapers, on the other hand, kept me updated with current events and provided concise and factual content that was easy to digest.

The combination of listening to VOA and reading in English created a well-rounded language learning experience for me. It helped me develop a strong foundation in both spoken and written English, which proved to be extremely beneficial in my academic and professional life. These activities not only improved my language proficiency but also instilled in me a lifelong love for learning and exploration.

Now, it's called the Age of AI. Media are everywhere, as well as information and data.

Ten Apps for the Development of Students' Listening-Speaking Skills:

While ELSA offers valuable features, let's explore the wider app market to discover more options for ESL/EFL speaking practice. Here are 10 top contenders that leverage media to enhance learning:

1. Cambly (https://www.cambly.com/) - This app connects students with native English speaking tutors for one-on-one video chat lessons. Students can choose from a variety of tutors with different specialties and interests. Cambly offers a free trial, so you can try it out before you commit.

2. italki (https://www.reddit.com/r/Anki/comments/hx57j1/how_to_use_italki_and_anki_to_learn_a_new/) - Similar to Cambly, italki is a platform that connects students with language teachers from around the world. However, italki offers a wider range of lesson types, including group classes and conversation clubs. Students can also find teachers who specialize in teaching English for specific purposes, such as business English or academic English.

3. Elsa Speak (https://elsaspeak.com/) - This AI-powered app helps students improve their pronunciation and fluency. Elsa uses speech recognition technology to identify areas where students need improvement and provides personalized feedback. The app also includes a variety of exercises and games to help students practice their speaking skills.

4. HelloTalk (https://www.hellotalk.com/?lang=en) - This app is a great way for students to connect with native English speakers and practice their conversation skills. HelloTalk has a built-in language exchange feature that allows students to chat with native speakers via text, voice, or video calls. The app also includes a variety of language learning resources, such as grammar lessons and vocabulary lists.

5. Tandem (https://www.tandemdiabetes.com/products/software-apps/mobile-apps) - Another language exchange app, Tandem allows students to connect with native English speakers from all over the world. The app has a built-in chat feature, as well as a voice messaging feature. Tandem also allows students to correct each other's grammar and pronunciation mistakes.

6. Speaky (https://www.speaky.com/) - Similar to Tandem and HelloTalk, Speaky is a language exchange app that connects students with native English speakers. The app uses a points system to encourage students to chat with each other regularly. Speaky also has a built-in translation feature that can help students communicate with speakers of other languages.

7. Busuu (https://www.busuu.com/) - Busuu is a comprehensive language learning app that offers a variety of features to help students improve their speaking skills. The app includes interactive lessons, conversations with native speakers, and a speech recognition tool that provides feedback on pronunciation. Busuu also offers a grammar checker and a vocabulary builder.

8. Duolingo (https://www.duolingo.com/) - While not specifically designed for speaking practice, Duolingo can be a helpful tool for ESL/EFL students who want to improve their basic vocabulary and grammar skills. The app uses gamification techniques to make learning fun and engaging. Duolingo also offers a speaking component that allows students to practice speaking short phrases and sentences.

9. Memrise (https://www.memrise.com/) - Another app that focuses on vocabulary building, Memrise uses spaced repetition and mnemonics to help students learn new words. The app also includes a variety of games and quizzes that help students test their knowledge. Memrise can be a helpful tool for ESL/EFL students who want to build their vocabulary for conversation.

10. Netflix (https://www.netflix.com/) - Although not strictly an app, Netflix can be a great resource for ESL/EFL students who want to improve their listening and speaking skills. By watching movies and TV shows in English, students can expose themselves to natural language and learn new vocabulary and expressions. Netflix also offers subtitles in a variety of languages, which can be helpful for students who are still developing their English skills.

These are just a few of the many apps and resources that can help ESL/EFL students improve their speaking skills. The best app for you will depend on your individual learning style and goals. 

 The Framework

 Below is a framework I have used to evaluate this mobile application:

I. Core Functionality:

• Features: Does the application offer the core features and functionalities it promises?
• Usability: How easy is it to learn and use the application? Is the interface intuitive and user-friendly?
• Performance: Does the application run smoothly and efficiently? Are there any lags or crashes?
• Reliability: Is the application stable and dependable? Does it function consistently?

II. User Experience (UX):

• Visual Design: Is the application visually appealing and well-organized? Does the design promote ease of use?
• Information Architecture: How well is information organized within the application? Can users easily find what they need?
• Accessibility: Is the application accessible to users with disabilities?
• Engagement: Is the application engaging and enjoyable to use? Does it keep the user motivated and coming back for more?

III. Functionality and Features:

• Completeness: Does the application offer all the functionalities a user might need for the intended purpose? 
• Integration: Does the application integrate well with other relevant tools and services?
• Customization: Can users personalize the application experience to fit their needs and preferences?
• Scalability: Can the application scale to meet the growing needs of users or an organization?

IV. Security and Privacy:

• Data Security: Does the application protect user data from unauthorized access or breaches?
• Privacy Practices: Does the application collect and use user data responsibly, following clear privacy policies?
• Security Updates: Does the developer provide regular security updates to address vulnerabilities?

V. Additional Considerations:

• Cost: What is the pricing model for the application? Is it affordable and justifiable for the value offered? - Best value for miney?
• Customer Support: Does the developer offer adequate customer support in case of issues or questions?
• Updates and Maintenance: Does the developer regularly update and maintain the application with new features and bug fixes?
• Offline Functionality: Can the application function to some extent without an internet connection? (if relevant) - Can it?

Evaluation Methods:

• User Testing: Having real users interact with the application and provide feedback is a valuable way to assess usability and user experience.
• Heuristic Evaluation: Experts can evaluate the application based on established usability principles and best practices.
• Performance Testing: Software tools can be used to measure the application's performance metrics like speed and resource usage.
• Security Audits: Security professionals can assess the application's security posture and identify potential vulnerabilities.

Pronunciation Practice: ELSA Speak focuses on improving pronunciation by providing users with immediate and precise feedback. The app uses advanced voice recognition technology to identify errors in pronunciation and suggest corrections.

Comprehensive Lessons: The app offers over 1,500 lessons and 6,000 practice  exercises covering all English syllables. These lessons include diverse topics relevant to both daily activities and professional scenarios, such as job interviews and workplace conversations.

How many lessons does ELSA have?

Currently, ELSA has over +1500 lessons (with more than 6000 practice exercises) and almost 50 topics.

Personalized Learning: ELSA creates personalized lesson plans based on the user's proficiency and learning goals. This tailored approach helps accelerate progress and ensures that the content is relevant to the user's needs.

User Feedback: Users have reported significant improvements in their pronunciation and overall confidence in speaking English after using the app regularly. According to the app's statistics, 90% of users saw an improvement in pronunciation, and 68% felt they spoke more clearly.

Wide Accessibility: The app is available for various platforms, including iOS and Android, and supports multiple languages for ease of use. It has been downloaded over 50 million times in 195 countries.

Additional Features: ELSA Speak includes a pronunciation dictionary, which provides correct pronunciation of words and phrases, and a feature for scoring and analyzing key elements of English communication, such as intonation and fluency.

My Experience in Using ELSA

I would like to share with you my impressions and opinions on ELSA and ELT.

1. The app is excellent for practicing the pronunciation of English words, phrases, and sentences.

2. It effectively enhances listening skills at the word, phrase, and sentence levels.

3. The feedback provided is useful, with a predominant focus on an American accent.

Accurate: Many language centers focus on writing and grammar, but often give little attention to speaking. ELSA’s sole focus is on forming a strong foundation and understanding of the American pronunciation & speech patterns, thereby significantly improving your articulation and diction. ELSA’s A.I evaluates your pronunciations with the highest accuracy, identifies any errors made and provides advice to correct them.

Moreover, ELSA currently lacks advanced capabilities in:

Reading comprehension: While it can process information and respond to keywords, ELISA may struggle to grasp the deeper meaning and context of text.

Text generation: ELSA's responses are likely based on templates or pre-programmed phrases. It may not be able to generate original text or adapt its writing style to the situation.

Generate creative text formats: ELSA's responses are primarily formulaic. Future advancements could enable it to produce more creative and varied text formats.

Research Findings

Some teachers and researchers have started doing research on the effectiveness of this AI-based application - ELSA. Here are a few of them:

1. Nguyen, D. T. T., & Tuyen, L. V. (2024). The effects of using "ELSA Speak app" on the enhancement of college students’ English-speaking skills. International Journal of English Literature and Social Sciences (IJELS), 9(1), January - February, pp. 27-32.

Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) enhances education by using mobile devices to extend learning beyond traditional settings. This study investigates the impact of the ELSA Speak app on English-speaking skills and student attitudes at a college in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Fifty English students were divided into control and experimental groups, with pretests, posttests, and questionnaires for data collection. Analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics showed that ELSA Speak significantly improved English speaking skills and students had positive attitudes towards the app. Recommendations were made for teachers and learners on using mobile applications, particularly ELSA Speak, to enhance English speaking skills in Vietnam.

2. 

This research aimed to determine the effect of the ELSA Speak application on students' English pronunciation development using a pre-experimental design at UPT SMP Negeri 1 Sungguminasa. The study involved 35 students from the 8A Multimedia class, selected through purposive sampling. Quantitative case study methods were used, with pre-test and post-test assessments. Results showed that the ELSA Speak app effectively improved pronunciation, as indicated by an increase in the mean post-test score (83.49) compared to the pre-test score (77.20). The normalized gain (N-gain) score of 5.5 further confirmed significant improvement in students' English pronunciation skills. 

3. Akhmad, N. W., & Munawir, A. (2022). Improving the Students’ Pronunciation Ability by Using ELSA Speak App. IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature, 10(1), 846-857.

A study at the University of West Sulawesi investigated if the ELSA Speak app improved students' English pronunciation (rhythm, stress, intonation) and how students felt about it. 20 students participated. A pronunciation test (pre-test and post-test) measured improvement. Students also filled out surveys about their experience.

Results showed significant improvement in pronunciation after using the app. Additionally, 82% of students responded positively to using ELSA Speak. This suggests the app can be a valuable tool for enhancing pronunciation and is well-received by students.

4.Anggraini, Anggraini. "Improving Students' Pronunciation Skill Using Elsa Speak Application." Journey, vol. 5, no. 1, 2022, pp. 135-141, doi:10.33503/journey.v5i1.1840.

This research introduces the ELSA Speak Application, aiming to enhance students' pronunciation skills. ELSA, or English Language Speech Assistant, is available for free on the AppStore and Google Play. It offers features designed to improve pronunciation with American accents through exercises focusing on correct word, phrase, and sentence pronunciation. The application includes a microphone icon for learners to practice speaking, with instant feedback on their pronunciation accuracy. Conducted as Action Research, the study evaluates the application's impact on student pronunciation skills through tests and classroom interviews across three cycles. Scores increased progressively from 70 to 80 points across these cycles, indicating improvement. The research concludes that ELSA Speak facilitates easier and more comprehensive pronunciation practice, benefiting students by enhancing their English pronunciation skills effectively.

 

References

Anggraini, Anggraini. "Improving Students' Pronunciation Skill Using Elsa Speak Application." Journey, vol. 5, no. 1, 2022, pp. 135-141, doi:10.33503/journey.v5i1.1840.

https://elsaspeak.com/en/ai/?variant=B

Nguyen, D. T. T., & Tuyen, L. V. (2024). The effects of using "ELSA Speak app" on the enhancement of college students’ English-speaking skills. International Journal of English Literature and Social Sciences (IJELS), 9(1), January - February, pp. 27-32.

https://ijels.com/detail/the-effects-of-using-elsa-speak-app-on-the-enhancement-of-college-students-english-speaking-skills/

European Journal of Applied Linguistics Studies https://oapub.org/lit/index.php/EJALS/pages/view/indexing

Lesmana, B. (2022). Using ELSA Speak Application to Improve Students' speaking Skill at UPT SPF SMPN 17 MAKASSAR (Doctoral Dissertation, Universities BOSOWA).

Pinontoan, K. A., Pelenkahu, N., & Muntuuntu, M. (2022). Using English Language Speech Assistant (ELSA) Speak Application) To Improve Students’ of SMP Katolik St. Johanis Laikit Pronunciation Ability. JoTELL: Journal of Teaching English, Linguistics, and Literature, 1(11), 1227-1237.

Samad, I. S., & Ismail, I. (2020). ELSA Speak Application as a Supporting Media in Enhancing Students’ Pronunciation Skill. Majesty Journal, 2(2), 1-7.

Samad, Ii. S., & Aminullah, A. (2019). Applying ELSA Speak Software in the Pronunciation Class: Students’ Perception. Edumaspul: Jurnal Pendidikan, 3(1), 56-63.

Triwardani, H. R., & Azi, R. N. (2022). The Effectiveness of ELSA Speak Application to Improve Pronunciation Ability. Jurnal Fakultas Keguruan & Ilmu Pendidikan Kuningan, 3(1), 28-33.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.