Abstract:

Based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) communication is the main support for the evaluation of linguistic competences of a language as a second language and within it, mediation as an effective communication strategy. The use of mediation involves adapting the spoken or written language based on a situation that occurs during communication between two or more people. Speakers´ function as a mediator implies an adequate transmission of information, the use of language to explain things, processes or situations to other people, simplify the main ideas and adapt the oral and written language during the communicative process. Therefore, the use of virtual communication assistants like chatbots can be used to learn, teach and assess in language learning by creating a simulated natural language environment. The chatbot needs a functional criteria factors related to multimodal user interface, content digital adaptation and the use of artificial intelligence oriented to natural language processing (NLP) techniques.

The article presented describes the paradigm shift on the evaluation of language skills at present and that in the future it will require the use of new virtual formats of multimodal interactive communication, such as chatbots.

Keywords:

Computer-assisted language learning, language skills, mediation, chatbots, virtual communication assistants, user-oriented interfaces.