A review of research on AR-supported language learning

ABSTRACT

Augmented Reality (AR) has gained significant attention in the field of language learning. This study conducted a systematic review of research on AR-supported language learning published between 2008 and 2022. Thirty articles were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, and analyzed using an analytical framework with the following dimensions: (1) technologies used, (2) target languages and skills, (3) theories and pedagogical approaches, (4) learning activities, (5) methodology used, and (6) major findings, including reported problems. The study yielded the following main outcomes. The majority of studies employed mobile devices for AR learning activities, with a focus on the English language and vocabulary acquisition as the most frequently trained language component. Scholars predominantly leveraged cognitive theory of multimedia learning along with game- and task-based learning approaches in their studies. The reviewed studies mainly involved students from higher education levels, with questionnaires being the most commonly used data collection method. Reported findings pertained to affective, behavioral, and language learning outcomes such as satisfaction, engagement, and speaking ability. Scholars identified proficiency in using AR, cooperation, design strategy, and application-related issues as challenges. Based on the results of the study, several implications and recommendations were presented by the authors.

KEYWORDS:

• Educational technology
• augmented reality
• language learning
• educational application
• systematic review

Data availability

The authors confirm that the data supporting the findings of this study are available within the article.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rustam Shadiev

Dr. Rustam Shadiev is a professor at the College of Education, Zhejiang University in the People's Republic of China. He is also a distinguished professor of Jiangsu Province and a Fellow of the British Computer Society (BCS), as well as a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (IEEE). Further, he was recognized by Elsevier, Scopus and Shanghai Rating as the Most Cited Chinese Researcher in the field of Education for the years 2020, 2021, and 2022. Dr. Shadiev's research interests are centered on advanced learning technologies that support language learning and cross-cultural education.

Qiwei Liang

Qiwei Liang is a Master's degree student at the School of Education Science, Nanjing Normal University in the People's Republic of China. He is currently conducting research on technology-supported language learning.