AI-Enhanced Virtual Reality For Language And Cultures Learning
Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a transformative tool, offering significant potential to enhance inclusivity. This paper examines the integration of VR and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in language and cultures learning, focusing on its application in fostering an inclusive and immersive educational experience. Moving beyond traditional computer-based lab sessions, the School of Global Affairs (SGA) is developing innovative practical skills sessions in collaboration with the Lancaster University Innovation team, who have designed AI-driven VR scenarios tailored to diverse learning needs and styles. The experience uses a combination of ChatGPT, Whisper API, and AWS Polly for real-time speech interaction. A case study has been conducted with Spanish B2-level students who engaged in a VR job interview simulation within the Data Immersion Suite. This platform provided an interactive environment for students to practice real-world communication while receiving peer feedback. Given that higher-level language acquisition demands not only grammatical accuracy but also real-world communicative competence, VR offers a dynamic solution by simulating authentic interactions in a low-pressure setting. Post-session questionnaire data reveal that the combination of VR and AI created a customizable and accessible learning platform, accommodating varied learning paces and reducing social anxiety. The findings support the effectiveness of VR and AI as tools for inclusive, immersive learning while also aligning with existing research indicating that multisensory engagement enhances retention (Shadiev et al., 2020). This study provides valuable insights for developing innovative and inclusive approaches aligning with contemporary pedagogical demands while increasing the appeal of our academic offerings in the context of CTP.