IMMERSE : Learning Culture in the Language Learning Classroom Through VR
Montroy Ferré, Maria (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona)
Matamala, Anna (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona)

Date:	2025
Description:	16 pàg.
Abstract:	This article presents the initial phases of the European project IMMERSE, funded by Erasmus+ KA2, which aims to innovate foreign language teaching by incorporating virtual reality (VR) and 3D objects. Focused on the university context and international students, the project proposes to integrate cultural content in language teaching through immersive environments that facilitate intercultural competence. After a theoretical review of the concept of culture and its nexus with language learning, as well as the effects of VR on foreign language learning, we conclude that this technology is a beneficial tool to facilitate authentic and meaningful cultural experiences. The article describes the development of a methodological framework based on teacher consultation, analysis of digital resources, and participatory session design. Based on this framework, structured templates for cultural sessions in VR have been created, adaptable to different CEFR levels, and focusing on five macro-themes: gastronomy, traditional music and dance, landmarks, festivities and traditions, and key personalities. An example of a session for Catalan as a foreign language class focusing on Gaudí and Dalí is presented, combining visual, textual and interactive elements with assessment activities. This session is used as a starting point to discuss the challenges and opportunities of these new technological developments.
Grants:	Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca 2021/SGR-00077
Note:	Altres ajuts: This publication has received funding from the European Commission under the Grant Agreement number 2024-1-IS01-KA220-HED-000248653
Rights:	Aquest document està subjecte a una llicència d'ús Creative Commons. Es permet la reproducció total o parcial, la distribució, la comunicació pública de l'obra i la creació d'obres derivades, sempre que no sigui amb finalitats comercials, i sempre que es reconegui l'autoria de l'obra original.
Language:	Anglès
Document:	Article ; recerca ; Versió publicada
Subject:	Virtual reality ; Foreign language teaching ; Intercultural competence ; Cultural heritage ; Catalan
Published in:	XLinguae, Vol. 18, Núm. 4 (2025) , p. 292-307, ISSN 1337-8384

DOI: 10.18355/XL.2025.18.04.19

16 p, 454.2 KB

The record appears in these collections:
Research literature > UAB research groups literature > Research Centres and Groups (research output) > Arts and Humanities > TransMedia Catalonia
Articles > Research articles
Articles > Published articles