Second Life as a Virtual Playground for Language Education: A Practical Guide for Teaching and Research (Review)

Abstract

With the growth of digital technology, human interaction has grown beyond traditional faceto-face settings and now includes contexts as diverse as 3D multi–user virtual environments (MUVEs). Interestingly, MUVEs can even be the site of language learning and development, allowing students to freely interact with each other and create their own content. Since the launch of one particular MUVE—Second Life—in 2003, a body of literature (e.g., Wang et al., 2020) has shown that effective use of MUVEs for foreign/second language (L2) education can lead to a range of linguistic and affective gains (e.g., heightened motivation). Second Life as a Virtual Playground for Language Education: A Practical Guide for Teaching and Research, written by Julian Chen, addresses the need for practical resources for language educators to meaningfully engage L2 learners in online environments. Based on relevant theory, empirically supported evidence, and practical experience, Chen details how to design tasks, run classes, and conduct research in Second Life. [First Paragraph]