East Japan's Yokosuka introduces AI English learning app in all public middle schools

Yokosuka City, a municipality in Kanagawa Prefecture, is pioneering an innovative approach to English education by implementing an AI-powered learning app called World Classroom across all municipal junior high schools. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first time a city in the region has adopted such technology to enhance English language skills among students.

The app enables learners to engage in English conversation with virtual characters, receive automated feedback on their writing, and practice at their own pace using tablet computers and other devices provided to them. Developed by a private company, World Classroom was rolled out in September and is accessible to around 8,000 students across 23 junior high schools in Yokosuka.

The app's primary functionalities center on improving students' speaking and reading abilities in English, as well as their presentation and writing skills. For speaking practice, the AI system evaluates the accuracy of students' pronunciation and word stress. Additionally, the app allows students to create self-introduction videos in English, further enriching their language learning experience.

Yokosuka's municipal government underscores the app's significance, stating that it empowers students to learn English beyond the classroom, in familiar settings like their homes. The administration anticipates that the user-friendly nature of the app will foster students' independent and proactive use of the English language.