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Project

Verhaal Speciaal: Breaking the Cycle of Low Literacy with AI

23 May 2024 - 31 December 2024

Low literacy is a major societal challenge in the Netherlands: 2.5 million people over the age of 16 struggle with reading, writing, or arithmetic. This issue is often passed down from generation to generation. The Verhaal Speciaal project aims to break this cycle by supporting parents and children together in developing language skills. Using innovative AI technology, the project seeks to make reading more engaging and accessible while enhancing literacy skills.

Thanks to a KIEM grant, researchers from the Responsible IT research group, in collaboration with designers and writers from Design Agency Fonk, are developing the Verhaal Speciaal application.

How It Works

This AI-powered tool utilizes audio and speech analysis to detect pronunciation, grammar, and word comprehension levels of the user while reading aloud. The AI then automatically rewrites the story to match the appropriate reading level while preserving the emotion and storyline.

  • Fonk is responsible for storytelling, scenarios, and a user-friendly interface.
  • The AI team, led by Yuri Westplat, is developing responsible technologies for voice cloning, speech recognition, and generative storytelling.

Education

Students and researchers can contribute to the design, implementation, and evaluation of the application. The project aligns with HvA’s focus on applied research, societal impact, and responsible technology development. Additionally, it can serve as a valuable educational tool in academic programs.

Expected Outcomes

  • A functional AI prototype that rewrites stories to different reading levels.
  • Improved reading, language, and pronunciation skills for low-literate children and their parents.
  • Innovative and accessible tools to help break the cycle of low literacy.

Team

  • Yuri Westplat (Researcher & Project Lead, Responsible IT)
  • Maarten Groen
  • Michiel Bontenbal
  • AI Team, Responsible IT research group

External Partners

  • Design Agency Fonk (User experience design, storytelling, scenarios)
  • Knowledge Center FDMCI (Support & knowledge sharing)