What is Speakable?
Speakable is a multi-lingual tool designed to aid in the creation of auto-graded speaking activities, suitable for over 100 languages. It's primary function is to relieve teachers from the burden of grading hours of recordings, thereby allocating more time for instruction. The platform offers a suite of features including Speaking Cards, which enable students to practice pronunciation by repeating phrases or responding to prompts. The Listening Cards feature offers custom audio lessons using text-to-speech technology and also provides options to integrate videos and podcasts for enhanced listening exercises. In addition, Writing Cards and Reading Cards are provided to respectively improve students' writing skills and reading comprehension. Speakable also includes grading and feedback tools, such as ACTFL/WIDA estimates to gauge student's language proficiency and a Gradebook & Analytics tool to monitor student performance, aiding teachers in data-driven decision making. The platform offers real-time feedback to instantly guide students during tasks. Furthermore, Speakable offers integrations with various platforms such as Google Images, Youtube, Clever, and Google Classroom, and a content library featuring resources created by its worldwide community of educators. This tool provides an efficient way for teachers to create engaging activities while also effectively tracking students' progress in language learning.
Pros
- Supports 100+ languages
- Flexible assignment builder
- Includes multimedia elements
- Automated grading feature
- Provides instant feedback
- Messenger and grade book analytics
- Self-assessment option
- Active development and support
- Public word sets library
- Ability to import Quizlet sets
- Custom pricing plans
- Google Classroom integration
- Bulk import function
- Contains research-backed features
- Free core functionality
- Allows customized pronunciation
- Supports 180+ languages
- Allows picture inclusion
- Supports voice recording
- Allows custom translations
- Allows pronunciation practice
- Supports new vocabulary learning
- Grammar practice features
- Includes ear training components
- Auto-graded speaking assignments
- Offers accent training
- Helps build students' confidence
- Allows communication focus
- Supports teacher and peer-made sets
Cons
- Limited bulk import options
- May not support lesser-known languages
- Unsupported accents or regional dialects
- Dependent on internet connection
- Lacks real-time interactive exercises
- No mobile app
- No multi-user management
- Limited integration with external tools
- Inability to evaluate intonation
- Non-transparent pricing policy
Speakable FAQ
What languages does Speakable support?
Speakable supports over 100 languages.
How does Speakable automate the grading of speaking assignments?
Speakable automates the grading of speaking assignments by updating grades automatically as students complete their assignments.
What types of feedback does Speakable provide to students?
Speakable provides instant feedback on students' target language speech. It uses a feedback messenger and gradebook analytics to support students when and where they need it most.
Can Speakable integrate with Google Classroom?
Yes, Speakable can integrate with Google Classroom. It offers native integration to import sections and sync assignment grades.
What is the Global Library in Speakable?
The Global Library in Speakable is a repository of over 1,000 sets of words, phrases, and sentences created by other language teachers.
How does Speakable allow teachers to create custom speaking assignments?
Speakable offers a flexible assignment builder that allows teachers to add pictures, voice recordings, custom translations, and more to the speaking assignments. This allows each assignment to be tailored to the needs of the students.
Can teachers record their own pronunciations in Speakable?
Yes, teachers can record their own pronunciations in Speakable. This feature allows them to provide students with reference audio in their own voice.
How does Speakable help students with pronunciation and vocabulary learning?
Speakable helps students with pronunciation and vocabulary learning by allowing teachers to create custom assignments that include new words and pronunciation exercises. It also provides repeated exposure to new vocabulary and sounds, which is crucial for language learning.