Advanced and practical educational technology tools
1. AI Chatbots and Language Practice Bots
These tools help learners practice conversations and receive instant feedback, making speaking practice more accessible:
• ChatGPT (custom GPT for Mandarin learning) — conversational practice, vocabulary explanations.
• HelloTalk / Tandem — language exchange apps connecting learners with native speakers.
• Duolingo AI Bots (Chinese course) — conversation-based learning in Mandarin.
• SuperChinese — AI-powered Mandarin learning app with speaking practice and instant correction.
2. Speech Recognition and Pronunciation Feedback Tools
Perfect for tone and pronunciation practice, with automated feedback:
• Microsoft Azure Speech-to-Text (custom models) — can be used to design tailored pronunciation tasks.
• Speechling — daily speaking practice with native coach feedback.
• HelloChinese — integrates speech recognition to help practice tones and pronunciation.
• Pimsleur Mandarin — audio and spoken repetition focus.
3. Interactive and Gamified Learning Apps
Engaging platforms for vocabulary, grammar, and cultural knowledge:
• Quizlet — for vocabulary flashcards and collaborative games.
• Kahoot! — quiz-based games, great for class competitions.
• Wordwall — easy creation of vocabulary and grammar games (match, sort, reorder).
• Edpuzzle — interactive videos with embedded questions (good for cultural clips).
• FluentU — authentic Mandarin videos with subtitles and vocabulary.
4. AI-Assisted Writing and Correction Tools
Helps students write in Mandarin and get real-time corrections:
• Grammarly (Chinese version alternatives) — emerging tools that can check grammar (though limited for Mandarin, but coming).
• JinShan (金山) AI Writing Tools — for native-like sentence building.
• LanguageTool — multilingual grammar checker, though Mandarin functions still growing.
• ChatGPT for rewriting and polishing simple student texts.
5. Character Learning and Stroke Order Tools
Tools to help with writing Chinese characters and stroke order practice:
• Skritter — handwriting and character practice.
• Arch Chinese — stroke order diagrams and worksheets.
• Pleco — dictionary with stroke order animations.
• HanziCraft — breakdown of radicals and components for deeper understanding.
6. Collaborative Tools for Interaction and Group Work
Great for group projects, discussion, and interaction design:
• Padlet — collaborative walls where students can post thoughts, images, sentences.
• Jamboard (Google) — visual collaborative boards.
• Miro — more advanced collaborative whiteboard.
• Slack / Discord Channels — for ongoing language exchanges, peer feedback, discussions.
• Trello — task and project management for group assignments.
7. Immersive Learning Tools (VR / AR)
Create cultural immersion and real-life scenarios:
• Immerse VR — VR-based language learning (developing for Mandarin).
• Mondly VR — conversation simulations, including Mandarin dialogues.
• 360-degree YouTube videos — virtual field trips to China (great for cultural lessons).
8. Inclusive Tools (Supporting Neurodivergent Learners)
Support students with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences:
• Text-to-speech tools: Google Read&Write, Natural Reader — reading Mandarin aloud to support learners with processing difficulties.
• Speech-to-text: for students who struggle with writing but can speak (dictate Mandarin texts).
• Color overlays / visual aids apps: help with visual processing in character reading.
• VoiceThread — multimodal presentations combining audio, video, and text (flexible for different learning styles).
9. Assessment and Formative Feedback Tools
For formative and summative assessments, including creative output:
• Flip (formerly Flipgrid) — video-based speaking assignments and reflections.
• Google Forms / Microsoft Forms — quick quizzes and reflections.
• Perusall — collaborative reading and annotation (students comment on texts).
• Peergrade — peer assessment platform to exchange feedback.
10. Teacher Community and Resource Sharing Platforms
For teachers to share materials and ideas, and collaborate:
• TES (Times Educational Supplement) — resources for Mandarin teaching.
• Chinese Teacher Training Centres (e.g., UCL IOE CPD network) — collaborative spaces.
• Facebook/WeChat Groups for Mandarin Teachers — informal resource and experience sharing.
11. AI-Assisted Translation Tools (with critical thinking!)
To explore translation, language production, and error analysis:
• DeepL — good for comparing Mandarin and English structures (though needs careful checking).
• ChatGPT translation tasks — use to generate drafts and analyze errors with students.
• Google Translate — for discussing why machine translation makes mistakes and how to “train” learners to think beyond it.
Note: Parts of this list were suggested by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. I edited and reviewed the final content to reflect my personal perspective.
