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Implementing Virtual Reality–Enhanced Tasks in Chinese Language Teaching

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Contextual Language Learning

Part of the book series: Chinese Language Learning Sciences ((CLLS))

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) has great potential to enable immersive, interactive, and intuitive language learning. Several studies have discussed the effectiveness of VR in language learning (Collentine in Language Learning & Technology. 15:50–67, 2011; Schwienhorst in Computer Assisted Language Learning 15:221–239, 2002), yet such attempts in teaching Chinese as a foreign language are still rare. Using the VR technologies Unity and Google Cardboard to enhance language learning, this study explores the design and effects of VR-incorporated tasks in Chinese language classrooms. Twenty-seven American college students participated in the study, with proficiency ranging from novice-high to intermediate-low levels. A combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis was employed to assess learners’ perception of their language learning experience and evaluate their motivation, engagement, and confidence. The results show that learners’ self-perceived experiences in VR-incorporated language learning were quite positive, and that VR-incorporated tasks enhanced their motivation, engagement, and confidence. Reflections on the use of the VR technology and directions for future study are discussed at the end of the study.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA

    Miao-fen Tseng & Ziyi Geng

Authors
  1. Miao-fen Tseng
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  2. Ziyi Geng
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Correspondence to Miao-fen Tseng .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Chinese as a Second Language, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan

    Yu-Ju Lan

  2. School of Languages, Literatures, Cultures and Linguistics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia

    Scott Grant

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Tseng, Mf., Geng, Z. (2021). Implementing Virtual Reality–Enhanced Tasks in Chinese Language Teaching. In: Lan, YJ., Grant, S. (eds) Contextual Language Learning. Chinese Language Learning Sciences. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-3416-1_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-3416-1_5

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  • Online ISBN: 978-981-16-3416-1

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