#Japan #AI Learning #International Exchange #Elsa #Kyoto Tango City

Introduction

In Kyoto Tango City, an innovative educational model is being introduced that incorporates international exchange and AI learning to bolster elementary school students' confidence in English. This initiative expands on the existing AI English speech assistance service, ELSA, which began in 2022 and has now broadened its scope to include fifth and sixth graders starting in April of this year.

The Pre-ELSA Program

The new Pre-ELSA program for third and fourth graders is designed to address the two primary elements proposed by the Ministry of Education's Foreign Language Working Group on November 17: fostering interest in learning English as a fun experience, and enhancing the ability to communicate through dialogue and collaboration with others. By igniting curiosity and excitement for learning English, the program aims to encourage students to engage in the language more fervently.

Neuroscience in Education

Recent neuroscience research highlights the significance of emotional experiences in bolstering learning effectiveness. This innovative approach aligns with findings that affirm creating engaging experiences prior to learning can wildly improve understanding and retention. This combination of emotional engagement and AI learning serves as the cornerstone for optimizing educational outcomes for students in Kyoto Tango City.

The Cycle of Learning: Real Interaction and AI

Kyoto Tango City plans to extend this initiative into middle schools, developing a continuous cycle of learning through real-life interactions followed by AI-assisted studies. This cyclical model promotes a positive shift in students' attitudes toward English from a mere obligation to an opportunity for personal growth, setting the stage for long-term improvements in their English proficiency.

Overview of Online Exchange Classes

In the Pre-ELSA program, students will first participate in real-world international exchanges to experience the joy of communicating in English. They will then shift to AI learning with ELSA to solidify and re-ignite their enthusiasm for the language by wanting to express themselves and communicate further.

Benefits of Implementing ELSA Schools

The integration of ELSA allows students to experience significant motivational boosts prior to diving into intensive English studies. Engaging in real-life conversations with peers abroad not only solidifies their belief that “English is fun” but also fosters a deeper connection to the language. As students receive constructive feedback from AI on their speaking abilities, they gradually accumulate the confidence and competencies necessary to communicate effectively.

Invitation for Coverage

We cordially invite you to cover this pioneering educational model which promotes positive attitudes towards English through AI utilization and international exchange. Coverage opportunities include classroom observations, student interviews, and discussions with educators.

Date Availability for Interviews: November 25 (Tuesday) and November 26 (Wednesday) during exchange sessions.

ELSA: Assisting English Learning

ELSA (English Language Speech Assistant) is an AI-based speech assistance service aimed at helping users speak English accurately and confidently. Since receiving investment from Google's AI division in 2019, it has reached over 90 million users in 192 countries, showcasing its unique voice recognition technology that pinpoints and enhances individual weaknesses in speaking. This tool has been adopted by numerous educational institutions, including Kyoto Tango City and various private schools across Japan.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: ELSA Japan LLC
• - Representative: Daiji Imao
• - Business Services: Development and provision of AI English conversation learning applications and support services for enhancing English proficiency.
• - Official Website: ELSA Speak