Title: VoiceXML and Natural Language Processing

Abstract: VoiceXML has accelerated the development and adoption of web-based speech applications. The W3C Speech Interface Framework consists of several integrated markup languages, including speech recognition grammar, speech synthesis, call control, lexicon, natural language semantics, and the next version of VoiceXML. VoiceXML interpreters support both system-directed dialogs and mixed initiative dialogs. By inserting semantic tags into the speech grammar language, a VoiceXML interpreter can generate the semantics of the user's request expressed in a language called the Natural Language Semantics Markup Language. Researchers in natural language processing can reuse facilities from the W3C Speech Interface Framework to facilitate their research, and contribute to the evolving specification being developed by the W3C Voice Browser Working Group

Curriculum: Jim Larson is chairman of the W3C Voice Browser Working Group which is developing the several languages for developing speech applications. He also works for Intel and teaches courses in speech application design at the Oregon Graduate Institute and Portland State University. His consulting firm, Larson Technical Services (http://www.larson-tech.com ), provides training workshops in VoiceXML. Dr. Larson's book, VoiceXML--Building Speech Applications , will be available in February 2001.

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