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VIRLAN: Collaborative Foreign Language Learning on the Internet for Primary Age Children: Problems and a Solution

The potential for using Internet and virtual reality to enhance language learning is currently attracting considerable academic interest. Most studies address collaborative learning amongst adult, and already communicative, learners. However, the vast majority of foreign language learners are very young and very low level and the technology is often seen as a barrier to learning. This paper reports the particular characteristics which need to be addressed if young, low-level learners are to use modern technologies. These include the need to incorporate topics of interest to very young learners and reflect the content of the language teaching they receive. Also important is the need to use approaches which will not overtax young learners’ cognitive abilities and skills. Further, there is the major problem of how to foster genuine communication where the language levels of users are very low. And finally, there is the need to retain some coherent approach and methodology within the learning process. This paper describes a virtual reality, online response called VIRLAN which works with primary school age beginners in foreign languages. A virtual world is open to young learners who can take part in a number of language games and other activities designed to reflect their interests and foster the language they have learned at school.