Computer-Assisted Language Learning Tools for Punctuation in Dyslexia: Development and Evaluation

The purpose of this paper is to discuss tools relevant to dyslexic students and language teachers with a focus on punctuation. First, the paper briefly discusses existing software in dyslexia. Following this short summary, the paper exemplifies the steps in Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) development by presenting _PunkBuddy_, an original tool aiming at assisting students in post-primary education in Ireland with the use of punctuation. The tool development draws on Second Language Acquisition (SLA) theories and various available technologies, including Text-to-Speech (TTS) technologies, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and dialogue systems in the form of a chatbot. On the basis on this tool, the paper provides a set of desiderata for teachers and developers focusing on dyslexia and proposes a combination of relevant evaluation frameworks.