Extending a learning ecology with virtual reality mobile technology: oral proficiency outcomes and students’ perceptions

ABSTRACT

Purpose

This paper aimed to explore the potential of virtual reality (VR) to develop the oral proficiency of English as Foreign Language (EFL) students and their perceptions of using VR mobile technology in EFL learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawn from an ecological perspective utilizing a mixed methods design, 23 students in an undergraduate English language program were invited to take part in a VR intervention with pre- and post-test assessments on oral proficiency, followed by individual face-to-face interviews.

Findings and originality/value

The quantitative findings showed that there were significant changes in overall oral proficiency, with notable differences in fluency and coherence, lexical resource, and pronunciation, and a slightly significant difference in grammatical range and accuracy. Interviews with the students revealed detailed affordances of VR in supporting the language learning process. Findings also indicated potential challenges and limitations that can arise from the use of VR mobile technology in EFL classrooms.

KEYWORDS:

• Virtual reality
• mobile technology
• oral proficiency
• learning ecology
• EFL

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Diem Thi Ngoc Hoang

Diem T. N. Hoang is a lecturer at Thainguyen University, Vietnam. She completed her PhD at Edith Cowan University, Australia. Her research areas include technology-enhanced learning and teaching, English learning beyond classroom, and teacher training.

Maggie McAlinden

Maggie McAlinden is the TESOL program leader in the School of Education, Edith Cowan University, Australia. Her research focusses on emotion in language teaching and learning and intercultural education.

Nicola F. Johnson

Nicola F. Johnson is an associate professor in the School of Education at Edith Cowan University, Australia. Nicola researches peoples’ use (of all ages) of digital technologies for formal and informal learning and leisure.