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

The objective of this small-scale study, as part of a larger interdisciplinary research project, 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. In that study, subjects found the learning tasks were monotonous. In addition, some found it difficult to move around the VR space using handheld VR controllers while wearing a wired Head Mounted Display (HMD). Therefore, this study put added focus on providing an engaging language learning experience through immersive visual effects and tactile feedback from interactive 3D words. Furthermore, a new standalone HMD system which allowed users to literally walk freely around the VR space was procured for the study. University students (n = 17) each completed five 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. In addition, all subjects stated that compared to traditional language-learning activity, 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 how to physically manipulate the words. Based on the results of the study 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.