LoomVue Browser: Supporting Language Learning with a Dynamic Diglot Weave

During Phase I in 2020, the team developed a prototype of an online program for middle and high school students who are English Learners (ELs) that presents diglot weave passages that blend English and Spanish words together, with passages continually changing as readers gain skill in the target language. The prototype includes a machine learning engine that automatically translates single words or small phrases into a target language to support vocabulary acquisition and improved reading comprehension.   At the end of Phase I, researchers completed a pilot study with 13 middle school students who are English Learners and four teachers. The prototype operated as intended when students read passages and students could use the platform to practice and learn vocabulary. Research also demonstrated that students exhibited positive gains on their self-perceived knowledge of vocab words, showing nearly 20% improvement from pre- to post- test on a researcher developed measure.

In Phase II, the team will fully develop the mobile app with a browser extension, a machine learning algorithm to handle more speech and word phrases, and the functionality of educator dashboards. After development is complete, the researchers will complete a pilot study to examine the product's usability and feasibility, fidelity of implementation, and promise to increase vocabulary acquisition, reading comprehension, and attitudes about reading compared to regular instructional practices. The study will include 20 middle schools with higher proportions of students who are English Learners. Students who are English Learners in half of the schools will be randomly assigned to use Loomvue and English Learners in the other half of schools will complete business-as-usual activities. Pre- to post- scores will be examine using standardized measures including the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Tests. The researchers will gather cost information using the "ingredients method" and will include all expenditures on things such as personnel, facilities, equipment, materials, and training.