Use of virtual world environments to improve high school student oral and written proficiency in learning world

language

Laura Jacob

schwiri561@duq.edu

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.