DynEd Design Features

DynEd's Language Learning Solutions are a step forward in English Language teaching. Based on extensive classroom experience, the latest research into how people learn, and upon accumulated data gathered and analyzed over 17 years in the field of computer-assisted language learning, DynEd's courses take full advantage of what multimedia technologies can provide. There are significant differences between traditional, text-based approaches and the listening-based, visually supported approach that is at the heart of the DynEd Recursive Hierarchical Recognition (RHR) approach. DynEd solutions have proven themselves all over the world. They actively engage and hold the attention of learners and they cut learning time.

Recursive Hierarchical Recognition

Developed by Lance Knowles, this breakthrough language learning approach resonates with how the human brain has evolved to search for, recognize and employ language patterns in predictable ways. Learning proceeds in a recursive fashion, employing the brain's hierarchical memory structure in ways that a linear approach cannot.

Multi-modal Learning

Language models are presented and practiced in ways that facilitate comprehension and long-term learning. DynEd's unique "iconic" approach coordinates visual information with auditory input in ways not possible with textbooks. This allows the learning sequence to follow the natural path: listening, speaking, reading and writing. For more information, please read Theory & Research.

Fully Interactive

Learners are active, not passive, when using DynEd's time-based interface. Within a lesson, students can move backward or forward, repeat a sentence or phrase as many times as needed, record and monitor their voices, and see clear visual support that aids comprehension. In addition, learners actively demonstrate the level of their comprehension by completing listening or other tasks that are woven into each lesson and which, in many cases, alter the depth of the presentation through DynEd's patented 'shuffler' mechanism.

Scope and Sequence

DynEd doesn't leave language learning to chance. In our core courses, such as First English, English for Success, and New Dynamic English, the presentation of language takes advantage of how the human brain is organized. No other provider of English language courseware has developed this approach. For more information, please read our papers on the theory behind DynEd's pedagogy.

Consistent User Interface

All DynEd courses use the same easily understood interface on all computer platforms. Experience gained using one DynEd title is immediately applicable to any other DynEd title.

Appropriate Role for Technology

DynEd maximizes the effective use of multimedia technology, but recognizes its limits as well. DynEd's core courses are designed to work in a cost-effective 'blend' with classroom support, giving students the opportunity to extend and personalize the language content.

Records Management and Assessment

DynEd's award-winning Records Manager simplifies class management by allowing teachers and administrators to effectively manage the installation, lesson access, testing, and on-going monitoring of student activities. Specifically designed for language learning, the Records Manager tracks, analyzes, and makes recommendations that greatly improve the language learning process, reduce costs and increase student motivation. In addition, the records can be printed or exported into existing database systems.

An important new feature of the Records Manager is the Intelligent Tutor and its study scoring system. This provides a quick way to assess and modify the quality of study activities.

Visual Support

High-quality color graphics and videos provide clear, appropriate visual support for enhanced language input. Attractive layout and a range of characters engage and motivate learners in various presentations, exercises, simulations, and games. DynEd designers are also careful to control the intensity and brightness of colors in an effort to reduce eye strain, an important consideration for learners of all ages. The use of videos by DynEd is tempered by the fact that although they can be entertaining, they can also be distracting and in many cases are much less effective than graphics at representing important conceptual relationships.

Adaptive Shuffler Technology

DynEd's patented Shuffler technology continuously monitors the progress of learners and dynamically adjusts the content according to learner performance. As a learner gains proficiency, the number of choices and the depth of the material increases. For learners having difficulty, the material tends to recycle more often and with fewer variations. In this way, the program responds to the student and thereby individualizes the presentation and learning tasks.

Placement Testing

DynEd's Placement Tests are computer-adaptive tests that quickly place students into the appropriate DynEd courses and ensure that they study at the optimum level. Access to the tests is controlled through the Records Manager.

Mastery Testing

DynEd's core courses include a series of Mastery Tests to help teachers evaluate a learner's progress and to confirm correct placement into the courses. Access to the Mastery Tests is controlled through the Records Manager. Test items are randomly chosen from a sequence of item banks to ensure variation for each learner and from one test occurrence to another.

Speech Recognition

Except in courses designed for young children, DynEd's core courses include Speech Recognition exercises. These motivating, highly effective exercises have proven to be a good way to get students to do the repetition work necessary to develop oral language proficiency.

Learner Convenience and Control

Learners can use DynEd programs with or without an active connection to the Internet, and they can study on a network in a lab at school or at work, or on a laptop at home or on an airplane. Once DynEd programs are installed, they can be used anytime, anywhere.

Reliability and User-Friendliness

DynEd's programs are reliable and are supported by people who care about quality. User data from around the world is collected, analyzed and used to update, improve, and refine all programs.