Some people may ask, can computers be a teaching or learning tool for learners? The answer is yes! GETS e-learning programs are developed using a patented, research-based technology system called TALL (Technology Assisted Language Learning). TALL was created by Brigham Young University, a premier language research university in North America. Thousands of individuals have been assessed in the program to ensure that only the best learning theories, technologies and practices are used. TALL delivers real-time, customized e-learning to individual users through a patented computer tracking program. Because TALL tracks each learner individually it can adapt to their specific needs. Click the link below to see a brief demosntration of the TALL system.
 VIEW TALL DEMONSTRATION
Below are some of the major advantages of the TALL system:
SYSTEMATIC SPACED REVIEW
TALL integrates a natural spaced review process. Review is spaced over a period of days and weeks to assure that vocabulary, phrases, structures and grammar principles become part of the learner’s long-term memory. This type of spaced-review helps to ensure learner retention. Compare the average learner retention rate of TALL with other typical e-learning programs. GETS knows how to promote a positive learning environment
Figure 1 - Retention is improved even after a semester is over
through systematic spaced review
Task-Based Learning
A task is a learning activity that simulates a real-life situation. All tasks are integrated and evolve into more difficult tasks as learners master knowledge. For example a learner might be presented with the following progessive tasks in a language course, "Meet Someone New", then "Describe People", then "Give Instructions" and finally, "Support an Opinion" or "Describe an Event".
In task-based learning learners are required to communicate with a real-life objective. TBL (Task-Based Learning) focuses on providing experiences where learners listen to multiple examples of authentic communication in a real social context, and then interact in order to solve real-world problems and communicate ideas, needs, and desires. Dr. M. David Merrill, a leader in the field of instructional design says, "Learning is facilitated when learners are engaged in solving real-world tasks."
Figure 2 - The progression of tasks
LEARNING ADAPTIBILITY
TALL adapts to learners as they go through exercises and screens. TALL uses an adaptive learning approach towards instruction. Based on the learners’ performance, the TALL system adapts to them assigning to each individual different activities that reflect their own progress. These graded activities present in our databank are also reassigned over a period of time to revisit certain difficult concepts. View the TALL task adaptive path example below:
Figure 3 - Adaptive learning paths in TALL
Reporting System
TALL offers a comprehensive reporting system or Learning Management System (LMS) that can be viewed both by learners and training administrators. This lets administrators know exactly where each learner is in their learning process and in which areas they struggle, opening doors for a more tailored and individualized learning experience. On the other hand, learners feel motivated when they see exactly what they need to practice to be successful in their course. See the example reports below:
Figure 4 - Examples of TALL reports
Blended Learning Environment
Our ESL programs use a strategic blended learning method that helps to ensure optimal retention and performance. Below is a diagram that illustrates our unique blend of self-paced learning, peer collaboration, practice labs, and instructor-led training.
Figure 1 - Illustration of our unique blended learning model. This illustrates environment benefits of technology in the classroom
Just in Time Grammar Instruction
Our ESL programs present grammar in a way that does not require learners to develop a rich base of grammatical terminology, but rather helps learners remember the structure of particular utterances. Instead of presenting learners with a discussion of rules, TALL prefers to show learners animated examples in which the focus is on the relationship between form and meaning. “Just-in-time grammar” refers to the use of grammatical explanations and exercises presented as a part of a task-based approach where performing the task is paramount and the grammar presentation is a tool to facilitate communication and increase accuracy.
Figure 2 - Just-in-time grammar animation
Research-Based
It is rare to find a learning system that was held accountable for learning results. We were held accountable, and we are committed to continue to hold ourselves accountable through on-going research at a research center with valid measurement instruments. The TALL system courses were designed according to ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines. Each course is designed to teach language that is appropriate for that proficiency level. Each course is also intended to help learners move from one proficiency level to the next. Research also indicates that there are environment benefits of technology in the classroom.
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