Educational Software

Xercise Engine (XE) is an authoring tool for creating interactive language learning exercises. The exercises are Java applets, which can be utilised in various applications, such as Internet or intranet-based language learning systems or language courses distributed on a CD-ROM. The exercises are typically embedded within related HTML pages.

The authoring environment consists of an HTML editor, the XE editor, and some templates. The author uses any standard HTML editor to embed the exercise applets in the learning material. The XE editor applet is then used to configure the exercises with the right content. Another applet, the XE runtime, is distributed with the authored material. With this applet, a student can only run the exercise but not edit it. Both applets can be used with popular Web browsers, such as Netscape Navigator 4.X and Internet Explorer 4 or 5.

There are four basic exercise types to choose from: Fill-in-the-blank, Hangman, Matching Pairs and Multiple Choice. Due to the simplicity and flexibility of XE, there are few limits to the kinds of learning materials that can be produced with it. The texts can be in any language, it is suitable for students at all levels and in many disciplines, and all kinds of multimedia can be utilized within the HTML pages for enhancing the learning experience.

There are many possible uses for the exercises: self-study material, reference and help pages for illustrating language concepts, etc. The ability to choose a page displayed next in the web browser makes it possible to create stories or games with obstacles. The player’s success in the exercise solving determines his or her route in the adventure

Download a free demonstration package of XE (2.3 MB), including a sample game, sample exercises, and more!

Try out the demonstration package.

Price list of XE.

Other software

Last modified: 20.05.1999 by ruth.vilmi@kolumbus.fi