Presentations

Co-presented with Dr. Regina Kaplan-Rakowski

Reports findings from a follow-up systematic review of high-immersion VR for language learning (VRALL). Using the PRISMA framework, the review analyzed 90 peer-reviewed studies (2015–2024), identifying research trends, pedagogical impacts, and methodological practices. Results show rapid growth in VRALL research—particularly in Asia, with English as the dominant target language—and gains in engagement and outcomes across domains such as vocabulary and speaking, with pre-training and scaffolding helping manage cognitive load.

Co-presented with Dr. Regina Kaplan-Rakowski, Prerna Choubey, Sabina Nowak, and Ebtehal Asiri

Explores how immersive realities can support intercultural competence in language learning.

Co-presented with Dr. Saniye Deniz Gokcora

Online materials often require substantial instructor work to mediate, sequence, and adapt content for second-language literacy development. AI and related tools both simplify and complicate the instructor’s role as technology curator. Topics include computer-assisted reading and AI for differentiated instruction and reading development.

Co-presented with Prerna Choubey, Eunkyoung Cha, and Dr. Regina Kaplan-Rakowski

Discusses the role of AI and VR in language education and the potential of AI-enhanced high-immersion VR to provide individualized, contextualized learning through immersive real-world scenarios and simulations, including challenges and future directions for research and practice.

Co-presented with Dr. Tricia Thrasher, Dr. Randall Sadler, Uliana Ovsiannikova, Dr. Dorothy Chun, Dr. Regina Kaplan-Rakowski, Dr. Justine Meyr, and Ye Yuan — CALICO Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, PA

Illustrated challenges across five steps of VR implementation in language classrooms—recruiting schools, VR acquisition and setup, teacher and student training, classroom management, and data collection—and shared attempted solutions and recommendations for educators and researchers.

Co-presented with Dr. Regina Kaplan-Rakowski — AECT Annual Conference, Orlando, FL

Mixed-methods study on whether VR can help hold Chinese language learners’ attention during longer listening tasks, considering cognitive load, engagement, immersion, and sense of presence.

Co-presented with Taliah Ales, Dr. Debbie Cockerham, Rubaiyat Iqbal, and Dr. Yunjo An — AECT (virtual)

Investigates gamification in a technology training course for senior adult learners, including interactive demonstration of gamified strategies for educators and researchers.

Co-presented with Dr. Deborah Cockerham, Taliah Aleskandransky, Rubaiyat Iqbal, Rabita Islam, Meilin Jiang, and Dr. Yunjo An — Infinity Festival, Fort Worth, TX

Explored gamification’s impact on technology learning among senior adults; preliminary data suggest levels and challenges can support learning outcomes and self-efficacy.