This study summarizes recent achievements in the expanding development of man/machine communications and reviews current technological hurdles associated with the development of artificial intelligence systems which can generate and recognize human speech patterns. With the development of such systems, one potential application would be the establishment of machine-assisted reading centers, permitting significantly increased individualized reading instruction similar to the techniques employed in modern language laboratories to supplement classroom instruction. The Computer Assisted Reading Educational System (CARES) is proposed as a model for a reading laboratory and described in terms of flow diagrams, system response parameters, input/output displays and devices, estimates of required machine size, system cost, and time development. (Author/RB)