Second Language Retention Intelligent Training System

Military personnel who take part in intense periods of second language (L2) training are at risk of losing their second language skills during periods of underutilization. This proposal describes a research effort aimed at addressing this problem through the creation of the Second Language Retention Intelligent Training System (SLR-ITS). Our solution consists of three main elements. The first is developing an initial theoretical model of L2 retention and a research design to test this model. The second element is translating the theoretical model into pedagogical materials and a training methodology. The final element is developing a prototype of the SLR-ITS that makes use of this translation in both a scenario-based training environment and in a training environment aimed at portable devices (e.g. iPod). This work draws on the experiences of Stottler Henke in creating intelligent training systems and on the experiences of our consultants, Dr. Bardovi-Harlig and Dr. Stringer, in second language acquisition. The expected benefits of this research program are an increase in the effectiveness of L2 training and a decrease in the need for L2 retraining.