A virtual reality-based language learning environment to teach sentence word order

Abstract

VR Sentence word order Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Linguistics As part of a larger interdisciplinary research project, the objective of this small-scale study is to develop an engaging Virtual Reality (VR) based language learning task focused on sentence word order. It builds on a previous study of a VR-based language activity targeting prepositions. This study focused on providing an engaging language learning experience through immersive visual effects and tactile feedback from interactive 3D worlds. Furthermore , a new standalone HMD system that allowed users to walk freely around the VR space was procured for the study. University students (n = 17) each completed 􀅭ive sentences during a single treatment session. A 28 question exit survey was conducted immediately after the experiment. Analysis of the results showed that 11 out of 17 subjects felt the operation of the VR task was intuitive. Subjects found the learning tasks were monotonous. In addition, some found it dif􀅭icult to move around the VR space using handheld VR controllers while wearing a wired Head Mounted Display (HMD). In addition, all subjects stated that compared to traditional language-learning activities , they enjoyed doing the activity. However, a review of the subjects' behaviors, captured by a video camera, indicated that some subjects were initially confused about physically manipulating the words. Based on the study results presented here, the VR-based language activity was found to be a pleasurable way to study sentence word order. Future goals include the creation of interactive tutorials and a larger set of content.