LLADIGA: Learning Language with Dialogue Games

• Applicant: Professor Dr. David Schlangen
• Subject Area: Applied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 579231227

Large language models such as ChatGPT have shown that some form of language competence can be acquired through learning from large text corpora. This mode of language learning, however, is very different from how humans acquire language, which seems to require goal-driven interaction. The aim of LLADIGA is to bridge the gap between these two modes, by exploring the use of goal-driven and rule-governed linguistic activities (what we call "Dialogue Games"). Specifically, LLADIGA will develop techniques of multi-turn reinforcement learning, relying on feedback signals provided by such games. To be able to precisely measure the impact of learning mode, LLADIGA will design fine-grained measurement instruments that evaluate behaviour, as well as making it possible to make observations about the internal effects of different learning modes on the "developing" model. Thus, LLADIGA directly addresses several core questions of the SPP LaSTing, such as behavioural assessment, representations & mechanisms, training & optimisation, resource efficiency, and alternative models.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 2556: Robust Assessment & Safe Applicability of Language Modeling: Foundations for a New Field of Language Science & Technology (LaSTing)
• International Connection: Italy, Netherlands, United Kingdom
• Partner Organisation: Autonome Provinz Bozen - Südtirol
• Cooperation Partners: Professorin Dr. Raffaella Bernardi; Professorin Dr. Raquel Fernández; Professor Dr. Alessandro Suglia