Foreign Language Tandem Learning in Social VR Conception, Implementation and Evaluation of the Game-Based Application Hololingo

• Published in: I-com Vol. 21; no. 1; pp. 203 - 215
• Main Authors: Ahlers, Timo, Bumann, Cassandra, Kölle, Ralph, Lazović, Milica
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 26.04.2022
• DOI: 10.1515/icom-2021-0039
• ISSN: 1618-162X

Abstract Hololingo! is a social virtual reality app for real-time immersive distance learning of German as a Foreign Language (GFL). The acquisition of discoursive oral language skills for applied authentic contexts is challenging for group-based classroom settings and is often outsourced to autonomous analogue tandem learning. We operationalise a Digital Game-Based Language Learning (DGBLL) approach for distance learning, which relieves tandems from overstraining autonomy and self-guidance. Hololingo! supports tandems in their learning activities by providing entertaining communicative, collaborative, and didactically designed team tasks. These are embedded in a narrative adventure, target linguistic phenomena, and support the holistic acquisition of oral discourse competencies and fluency. The combination of the tandem principle, immersive Social VR gamification, barrier-free access to a global pool of expert/native speakers, and a curricular connection through task selection facilitates language learning and provides transcultural contacts. App development follows a Design-Based-Research cycle of conception, implementation, and evaluation. The results of a qualitative discourse analysis of the learning interaction are discussed with regard to tandem role behaviour, the relation between task design and communication as well as affective and creative behaviour.