Use of virtual world environments to improve high school student oral and written proficiency in learning world
language
Laura Jacob
Introduction
• Three-dimensional virtual worlds• Avatar• Second Life• Opensimulator (Open Sim)
Gaps in Literature
• Effect of virtual worlds on language learning• Benefits of virtual world interaction• Interactivity with language learning and
virtual worlds
Theoretical Frameworks
• Constructivist Theory
• Behaviorist Theory
Second Language Instruction and Technology
• 1) Is increased technological sophistication correlated to increased effectiveness to achieve pedagogical objectives?
• 2) What technological attributes specific to the new technologies can be profitably exploited for pedagogical purposes?
• 3) How can new technologies be successfully integrated into the curriculum?
• 4) Do new technologies provide for an efficient use of human and material resources?
(Salaberry, 2001)
Second Language Instruction and Technology
• 1) Is increased technological sophistication correlated to increased effectiveness to achieve pedagogical objectives?
• Language Village pilot project
• Koenraad, 2008
(Salaberry, 2001)
Second Language Instruction and Technology
• 2) What technological attributes specific to the new technologies can be profitably exploited for pedagogical purposes?
• Second Life and OpenSim
(Salaberry, 2001)
Second Language Instruction and Technology
• 3) How can new technologies be successfully integrated into the curriculum?
• Technology driven curriculum vs. Technology enhanced curriculum
(Salaberry, 2001)
Second Language Instruction and Technology
• 4) Do new technologies provide for an efficient use of human and material resources?
• Expense of Second Life and Open Sim
• Time analysis
(Salaberry, 2001)
Considerations
• Computer requirements
• Second Life or Open Sim
• Time, energy and money
• Prebuilt locales vs. building
References
• Koenraad, T. (2008). How can 3D virtual worlds contribute to language education? Focus on the Language Village format. Van Een Virtuele Variant Van Het Taaldorp (ViTAAL), 2008, 1-3.
• Salaberry, M. (2001). The use of technology for second language learning and teaching: A retrospective. The Modern Language Journal, 85, 39-56.