Integrating Augmented Reality into a Task-Based Thematic Language Teaching Unit

This case study explores ways that one type of technology, Augmented Reality (AR), are used with a task-based thematic unit to improve beginning language learners' speaking and listening skills. Researchers and practitioners have started to use AR in teaching languages. The few empirical studies that examined the use of AR in language teaching primarily examine whether AR can improve English language learners' vocabulary and their motivation in learning. It is still not clear how AR can be integrated effectively into the curriculum and no research has been done on how to use AR to improve foreign language learners' speaking and listening abilities. This study adopts the design-based research method, describes the design, development and implementation of an AR component that utilizes the app Post Reality in a task-based unit to improve students' speaking and listening, and examines students' perceptions of utilizing AR in this way. Data were collected using survey and a focus group interview. The results show that students benefit from this learning experience in terms of their speaking and listening skills. The study includes suggestions of ways to make improvements in the use of AR in language learning.