The document discusses the creation of an arithmetic learning skill for Amazon Alexa. The goals were to create a skill for learners of all ages that teaches basic arithmetic operations through an engaging story-based format. Two stories were developed, one for easy level and one for hard level, containing riddles about math problems. An initial usability test with 5 participants provided positive feedback on using stories and riddles for learning. The skill aims to make arithmetic learning more effective and enjoyable compared to traditional training programs.

1. SCIENCE
PASSION
TECHNOLOGY
Speech-based Learning with
Amazon Alexa
edMedia, July 2021
Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner

2. Motivation for creating a arithmetic learning skill in Alexa
In contrast to training programs, learning through play can be more
effective and can bring overall higher learning gains
as Vogt et. al. showed in their studies of different learning approaches.
(Vogt et. al, 2018)
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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• Vogt F., Hauser B., Stebler R., Rechsteiner K. & Urech C. (2018) Learning through
play - pedagogy and learning outcomes in early childhood mathematics, European
Early Childhood Education Research, Journal, 26:4, 589-603, DOI:
10.1080/1350293X.2018.1487160

3. Goals of the project:
• For learners of all ages
• Learning basic arithmetical operations (4 basic operations)
• Embedded in a captivating story
• Answer riddles based on real life situations
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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4. Research Questions (RQ)
• Is it possible to build an easily expandable skill prototype which is telling
stories with the help of Amazon’s Skill Kit?
• Is the skill suitable for both children and adults?
• Can we design the skill in such a way that a repeated play through of
the story with different experiences is possible?
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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5. Preliminary Considerations
• Different ages with different language habits
• Design the Alexa skill as flexible as possible
• Provide a path through the interaction with Alexa
• Crucial: the skill must be easy to use
• Provide a special sense of achievement
• Playful approach
• Think about how the people interact with the skill
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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6. Skill Design
• Skill is divided into 2 level ares
• Level 1: easy
• Level 2: hard
• User must listen carefully to the story and anser the math riddles
• Main character: 14-year-old pupil
• Story describes a usual day starting at 7 am and last until 9 pm
• 10 riddles per story
• Story meet the need of yound and old users
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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7. The Story
• In the story of Level 1 which is called “A fun day at the farm”
• the player visits his grandparents at their farm and helps them with
their daily tasks. This story is suitable for children who just started
learning the basic calculation types
• In the story of Level 2 which is called “Finally Holidays”
• the player takes the train to visit his best friend in the city and spends
a day with him. This story is suitable for older people who want to
train their calculation skills
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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8. Usability Test
• Due to Covid-19 a field test on a school was not possible
• A field study with 5 people from different ages was conducted
• Feedback was generally positive
• Positive feedback from our testers concerning the creativity of the
story line and the ide of story-based learning
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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9. Conclusion
• The creation of the new learning experience with Alexa had very positive
resonance from the test users
• The riddle is a new and funny way to learn basic arithmetic
• Lot of input for improvements of our skill could be received from the
tests
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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10. Platzhalter Abschlussfolie
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Michael Weiss, Markus Ebner, Martin Ebner
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