Exploring the impact of Virtual Reality (VR) on EFL primary school students’ vocabulary acquisition and general motivation

Identifier:  TFM:1720

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TFM1720

Authors:  Mounjid, Mohamed Amine

Abstract:
This study explores the impact of virtual reality (VR) on vocabulary acquisition and general motivation among primary school students. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving two fourth-grade classes from a semi-private school in Tarragona, Spain. The experimental group received vocabulary instruction related to the VR Shark experience using CLASSVR glasses, Avantis Education Limited. On the other hand, the control group did not use VR glasses but received the same vocabulary instruction using the Grammar-Translation method (GTM). The study adopted pre- and post-tests to test vocabulary acquisition and pre- and post-questionnaires to assess motivation. The study findings revealed that students in the VR group showed significantly higher vocabulary test scores and increased motivation than the control group. Consequently, virtual reality (VR) can be an effective educational tool that enhances vocabulary acquisition and increases student motivation.