The Use of Virtual Reality (VR) for Language Acquisition: A Comprehensive Analysis with Scientific and Practical Consequences
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajep.2627Keywords:
Computer-Assisted Language Learning; 21st Century Skills; Language Acquisition; Immersive Virtual Reality; PedagogyAbstract
Purpose: This study examines VR's suitability for language classes. Despite past research on virtual reality's instructional usefulness, nothing is known about its influence on language acquisition. This research examines VR's usefulness, benefits, and drawbacks in language training.
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of 26 2015–2018 scientific papers was c onducted. These papers were selected from 17 respected edtech and CAL magazines and conferences. The examination examined resources, learning settings, study time, advantages and drawbacks, and future research.
Findings: Virtual reality may boost language learning via engaging and immersive experiences, according to studies. Pros include increased engagement and contextual learning; drawbacks include pedagogical challenges and technology limits. The data also reveals aspects that require more study to optimise VR in language acquisition.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study's authors recommend further research on virtual reality and language learning. It suggests correcting technological and instructional concerns to improve implementation. To make virtual reality (VR) a feasible tool for language training, future research should improve VR tools, integrate them into curriculum, and measure long-term student learning.
Downloads
References
Berns, A. and Reyes Sánchez, S. (2020). A Review of Virtual Reality-Based Language Learning Apps. RIED. Revista Iberoamericana de Educación a Distancia, 24(1), p.159. doi:https://doi.org/10.5944/ried.24.1.27486.
Chen, B., Wang, Y. and Wang, L. (2022). The Effects of Virtual Reality-Assisted Language Learning: A Meta-Analysis. Sustainability, 14(6), p.3147. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/su14063147.
Familoni, B.T. and Onyebuchi, N.C. (2024). AUGMENTED AND VIRTUAL REALITY IN U.S. EDUCATION: A REVIEW: ANALYZING THE IMPACT, EFFECTIVENESS, AND FUTURE PROSPECTS OF AR/VR TOOLS IN ENHANCING LEARNING EXPERIENCES. International Journal of Applied Research in Social Sciences, [online] 6(4), pp.642–663. doi:https://doi.org/10.51594/ijarss.v6i4.1043.
Febriyanti Utami, Yudi Wili Tama and Ilza Mayuni (2024). A Review of Virtual Reality for English Language Learning in Higher Education. Edunity Kajian Ilmu Sosial dan Pendidikan, [online] 3(2), pp.163–180. doi:https://doi.org/10.57096/edunity.v3i2.225.
Li, K.C. and Wong, B.T.M. (2021). A literature review of augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality in language learning. International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 15(2), p.164. doi:https://doi.org/10.1504/ijmlo.2021.114516.
Lin, T.-J. and Lan, Y.-J. (2015). Language Learning in Virtual Reality Environments: Past, Present, and Future. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, [online] 18(4), pp.486–497. Available at: https://www.jstor.org/stable/jeductechsoci.18.4.486.
Morrison, R. (2016). Virtual Reality in the Language Learning Classroom. The Morning Watch: Educational and Social Analysis, [online] 44(1-2 Fall). Available at: http://journals.library.mun.ca/index.php/mwatch/article/view/1743 [Accessed 29 Aug. 2024].
Parmaxi, A. (2020). Virtual reality in language learning: A systematic review and implications for research and practice. Interactive Learning Environments, 31(1), pp.172–184. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2020.1765392.
Schwienhorst, K. (2019). The ‘third place’ – virtual reality applications for second language learning. ReCALL, 10(1), pp.118–126. doi:https://doi.org/10.1017/s095834400000433x.
Symonenko, S.V., Zaitseva, N.V., Osadchyi, V.V., Osadcha, K.P. and Shmeltser, E.O. (2020). Virtual reality in foreign language training at higher educational institutions. CEUR Workshop: proceedings 2nd International Workshop on Augmented Reality in Education, 22 March 2019, [online] 2547(08), pp.37–49. Available at: http://eprints.mdpu.org.ua/id/eprint/9435/.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 Eefa Binte Tariq, Hareem Ahmad

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY) 4.0 License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal.