Exploring the impact of the metaverse on English language teaching: Perspectives of students from the University of Boyacá

Victor del Carmen Avendaño Porras; Claudia Inés Bohórquez Olaya; Sergio Andrés Correal Cuervo

doi:10.24294/jipd.v8i7.4779

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Exploring the impact of the metaverse on English language teaching: Perspectives of students from the University of Boyacá

Victor del Carmen Avendaño Porras

Claudia Inés Bohórquez Olaya

Sergio Andrés Correal Cuervo

Journal of Infrastructure Policy and Development 2024, 8(7), 4779; https://doi.org/10.24294/jipd.v8i7.4779

Submitted：21 Feb 2024

Accepted：22 Mar 2024

Published：31 Jul 2024

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Abstract

This study investigates the impact of the metaverse on English language teaching, focusing on the perspectives of students from the University of Boyacá. The use of the metaverse was compared with the Moodle platform in a virtual educational environment. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods was employed. The sample consisted of 30 university students enrolled in English courses, randomly assigned to two groups: one using the metaverse and the other using Moodle. Students’ grades on different activities and assessments throughout the course were collected, and semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore students’ perceptions of the educational platforms. Results revealed that while students recognize the potential of the metaverse to enhance interactivity and learning experience, they also identified technical and accessibility challenges. Although no significant differences in grades were found between the groups, less variability in grades was observed in the metaverse group. The mixed design allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of the metaverse on English language teaching, while providing a variety of student perspectives on their experience with educational technology. This research contributes to understanding the role of the metaverse in English language teaching and highlights key areas for future research and developments in the field of virtual education.

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