A Mobile Game for Learning English Vocabulary with Augmented Reality Block Builder

Abstract

English learning is an essential part in modern education, and English vocabulary development has been shown particularly important in English learning. Yet, learners often found the process of English vocabulary learning dry and tasteless. This paper explores the possibility of using mobile game and Augmented Reality (AR) technology to improve the experience of English vocabulary learning. Our mobile game allows learners to play and learn anywhere and anytime. It is a multi-player word-guessing game, where a player can construct a virtual figure for an English word using an AR block builder and other players can guess the correct word from the virtual figure using their imagination. Preliminary user evaluation showed that our game facilitates players’ learning on English vocabulary and also fosters their creativity. We believe this game will help forming a learning community, which can serve as a stepping stone for more involved collaborative learning activities on English learning.