The new technology is coming from outfits like Advantage Learning Systems, a small but fast-growing software company in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. that sells instructional aids and computerized quizzes to monitor their results.

FORBES: Instant feedback in the classroom

There's already a surfeit of computerized English instructional aids for the classroom, but most lack the cultural touchstones and relevance needed to engage kids, says Ooi, who is an adviser to the Web project.

CNN: Computerized English