Abstract:

Along with the advances in technology, virtual reality applications that provide users with a real environment experience in virtual environments have been added to the technologies used in language learning. In this context, this research aimed to develop an in-depth perspective on the virtual reality applications developed for language learning by determining the general features of these applications. In this research carried out with the document analysis method, 15 virtual reality applications that were developed for language learning and that are available in such stores as Steam, Google Play Store, App Store, Oculus Store were determined by the purposive sampling method and included in the scope of the research. The applications discussed in the study were examined in terms of their general features (compatibility, accessibility, languages learned, price), the language skills they aim to develop and the language activities they offer in order to improve these skills. According to the results obtained from the research, related applications can be accessed from their own web pages as well as application stores, and most of the applications can work both on mobile devices and computer. In the applications, up to 33 languages can be learned, particularly English, French, German and Spanish. Some of the full and demo versions of the applications are free, and some of them are paid. The applications generally focused on improving speaking and listening skills. In this regard, it has been determined that there are various activities aimed at different acquisitions based on speaking and listening practices with native speakers. As a result, when the general features of virtual reality applications developed for language learning are examined, it can be said that they can provide students with a fun learning experience thanks to the interactive activities they offer to acquire different language skills. However, in order to determine the effectiveness of each application on the development of language skills, applied research by researchers is needed.

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