Persian FLAIR: grammatically intelligent web search for language learning

Abstract

[EN] We describe our work on the development of a new Persian module for FLAIR, a Java-based grammatically intelligent web search engine (Chinkina et al., 2016; Chinkina & Meurers, 2016). This website allows Persian teachers and Persian language learners to search for texts about any desired topic, prioritizing documents that are rich in selected grammatical constructions, and filtering them based on text difficulty. Currently, the Persian module includes 56 unique grammatical constructions. Our Persian FLAIR module allows for a more self-guided approach to language learning and provides a level of flexibility to both language learners and teachers. Students are able to read accessible texts that interest them, while teachers are able to find real world examples of grammatical concepts used together in the same text. FLAIR can be used to create custom learning materials. Teachers can use FLAIR to search for texts containing particular grammar concepts being focused on in the classroom, which can then be used as relevant topics of discussion or reading. We developed FLAIR in a response to the limited availability of resources for learning and teaching Persian, particularly when it comes to its colloquial forms. With FLAIR, we hope to provide a valuable tool for students and teachers alike.