The document analyzes various existing language learning systems by exploring their characteristics along four axes of interaction. The author, Alexis Morin, aims to identify strengths and weaknesses of these systems through qualitative methods, focusing on content curation, learner engagement, and system accessibility. Key findings are presented in a graph that categorizes the systems based on their operational spectrum and interaction styles.

1. Language Immersion for Chrome
FSI Language Courses
Existing Language Solutions Qualitative Analysis
The Mixxer
Alexis Morin, MA Interaction Design, Thesis Project 201 3

2. Analysis method
In my introductory presentation, I talked
about how I have tried over 24 different
existing systems to learn languages. Some of
these are web, mobile, book or Skype-
powered solutions. In an attempt to locate
areas of or lack that existing systems have
maybe failed to cover, I wanted to analyse
these systems in a qualitative way. Here are
the questions I've posed myself for each
system.
1. Where does this system lie in the
spectrum of the four I/Os? (fig. 1) In order to
accomodate for systems that worked only in 1
axis, I've drawn separate axes below the main
graph area. For systems that I believe to be
balanced in all four components, I've made a
box at the bottom center of the page.
2. Is the content of this system curated or
does it rather connect learners/teachers
and let them figure things out? This will
reveal which systems are likely to have
Input Output
customized content.
Oral Listening Speaking
3. Does the system actively reach out to
learners or do learners have to go to it ?
Books, for example are the perfect example of
Script Reading Writing
a passive system whereas systems that Fig. 1 - The four components of language learning
require learner participation (vocally,
juhansonin
scripturally, or socially) are engaging.
Alexis Morin, MA Interaction Design, Thesis Project 201 3

3. Read
Language Immersion for Chrome
Listen Speak
Google Input Tools
Write
FSI
Read Write Listen Speak
The Mixxer
Everything (dead center)
Alexis Morin, MA Interaction Design, Thesis Project 201 3

4. Curated Engaging
FSI Courses The Mixxer
Google Input Tools
Language Immersion for Chrome Language Immersion for Chrome
Google Input Tools
The Mixxer FSI Courses
Connecting Passive
Alexis Morin, MA Interaction Design, Thesis Project 201 3