Speakers: Assoc. Prof. Kae NAKAYA (Osaka University, Japan)

Moderator: Assoc. Prof. Juan ZHOU (Tokyo City University, Japan)

Curated by: APSCE Computational Thinking in Education & STEM (CTE/STEM) SIG

Date: 8 September 2026 (Tuesday)

Time: 14:30-15:30 (UTC+8)

Register before 6 September 2026:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bOOJ-QzbRTWo3DTtZPRWzA

Abstract:

 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners often know what they want to say but cannot immediately retrieve the words needed to express it. This talk introduces HanaStrategy WebApp (HanaS), a browser-based speaking practice system designed to help learners overcome such breakdowns by finding alternative ways to convey meaning. In HanaS, learners describe illustrations without using designated restricted words. They must therefore solve the communicative problem by using a similar expression, explaining the features or functions of an unavailable word, or reorganizing the message so that the same meaning can be conveyed through a different route. After each attempt, AI-generated feedback presents an illustration of how the learner’s speech may be interpreted, identifies where alternative expressions were used successfully, and provides model expressions that convey the intended meaning without relying on the restricted words. Learners then reflect on what was conveyed, what remained unclear, and how they could improve before making a second attempt. Drawing on a two-month classroom implementation, the talk introduces changes in learners’ speaking performance and strategy use, as well as relationships between their reflection content and performance changes. It also discusses how task constraints and AI-supported reflection can support strategy use and reflective problem solving rather than simply providing learners with correct answers.

Biodata:

Kae NAKAYA is an Associate Professor at the Center for Student Success Research and Practice, the University of Osaka, Japan. Her primary research focuses on educational technology for foreign language learning, particularly technology-enhanced environments for developing English speaking skills and strategic competence. Alongside this work, she also researches educational systems for teacher development to visualize and support teachers’ assessment of learners, and Learning Analytics Dashboards that support students’ self-regulated learning and career planning. She won the Best Poster Award at ICCE 2015 and the Award for Outstanding Young Researcher from the Japan Society for Educational Technology in 2019.