English Avenue (based in Meguro, Tokyo; operated by Universal Kaihatsu Co., Ltd.; CEO: Asako Kato) has released 'SpeakOz,' a new AI language learning app designed to solve the long-standing challenge of Japanese learners who can 'read but not speak' English, using the concept of 'muscle training for the mouth.'
This app challenges the conventional wisdom of 'learning English through spelling' by adopting an approach that 'starts with sound without looking at text.' By doing so, it aims to help users acquire natural, native-like pronunciation and English expression capabilities that are not hindered by spelling.
Social Problem: 'Why Can't Japanese People Speak English?' In Japan, there is a common issue where even after studying English for over 10 years and achieving high TOEIC scores, learners cannot speak confidently in actual conversations. This is particularly evident in Q&A sessions following presentations, stemming from habits like 'translation-based thinking' and passive learning focused on simple reading.
SpeakOz focuses on the 'ability to produce language,' sharpening spontaneity by inputting vast amounts of natural English.
Solution: The New Concept of 'Speaking = Muscle Training for the Mouth' The app is designed to cultivate speaking ability by enhancing 'motor memory.' Unlike the general learning process of 'reading text -> understanding -> pronouncing,' it adopts the following process: 'listening to sound -> imitating/reproducing -> checking text only after achieving a score -> understanding content.'
Through this approach, the following effects are expected: - Acquisition of natural pronunciation unaffected by spelling - Improved ability to recognize and reproduce sound directly - Mastery of speed, rhythm, stress, and intonation at the sentence level
Key Features It provides AI-driven speech analysis and scoring (accuracy, fluency, completeness, prosody) and offers visual feedback using IPA.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: New Product
- Products / services: SpeakOz