The Implementation of Augmented Reality for Language Teaching and Learning: A Research Synthesis

Abstract

As technology dynamically progresses with new inventions, Augmented Reality (AR) technology emerges as one of the prominent inventions of the current technology development. This technology works by producing additional data including texts, animations, images, audio, and even haptic feedback embedded in the real world without manipulating the existing real environment. This study attempts to highlight the potential of AR technology as an educational tool, specifically for language teaching and learning. Using particular criteria of inclusion and exclusion, this study collected and reviewed a total of 22 articles from 21 journals and one proceeding. The findings revealed the research purposes, methods and instruments, language focus, participants, and the types of AR Applications. Subsequently, regarding the affordances of this technology, this study revealed that AR technology could contribute to the development of language performance and learning achievement, increase learning satisfaction, and reduce learning anxiety. This technology facilitated situated, personalized, and collaborative learning settings. Barriers to the application of this technology were identified including technical limitations, inequal technological competence, and health and social issues. Based on these findings, several implications were formulated.