Use Chatbot CSIEC to Facilitate the Individual Learning in English Instruction: A Case Study

CSIEC (Computer Simulation in Educational Communication), is not only an intelligent web-based human-computer dialogue system with natural language for English instruction, but also a learning assessment system for learners and teachers. Its multiple functions including grammar gap filling exercises, talk show and chatting on a given topic, can satisfy the various needs from the students with different backgrounds and learning abilities. In this paper we present a case study of the integration of CSIEC's multiple functions into English syllabus design in a middle school and its pedagogical effectiveness. The comparison of two examination results before and after the system integration shows great improvement of students' performance, and the survey data also indicates the students' favor to this system.