Spoken Language Dialogue Models

Spoken language interactive systems range from speech-enabled command interfaces to dialogue systems which conduct spoken conversations with the user. In the first case, spoken language is used as an alternative input and output modality, so that the commands, which the user could type or select from the menu, may also be uttered. The system responses can also be given as spoken utterances, instead of written language or drawings on the screen, so the whole interaction can be conducted in speech. Spoken dialogue systems, however, are built on models concerning spoken conversations between participants so as to allow flexible interaction capabilities. Although interactions are limited concerning topics, turn-taking principles and conversational strategies, the systems aim at human–computer interaction that would support natural interaction which enables the user to interact with the system in an intuitive manner. Moreover, trying to combine insights of the processes that underlie typical human interactions, spoken dialogue modelling also seeks to advance our knowledge and understanding of the principles that govern communicative situations in general.