Innovation in Language Learning

Understanding the sociology of the Metaverse implies an awareness of current issues, controversies and trends in this area. One way of approaching this  is using one’s own experience as a benchmark to evidence reflection on such experience, using sociological imagination, research findings and theoretical statements to discover whether they match the experience or not. The aim of this research was to attain deeper understanding of my own experience over the past seven years as a language teacher in Second Life® (SL) and the physical world by applying social knowledge and analysing the impact these findings have on language learning. 

My practices in 3D virtual worlds are mapped against those experienced in 2D and physical environments, comparing similarities and differences between interaction processes, community building and presentation of self. Based on my knowledge and involvement in numerous activities carried out as a language trainer, course designer, moderator, course participant and machinimatographer in virtual worlds, the paper will highlight the impact the various stages and processes had on language teaching and learning. My reflections include the highlights and pitfalls encountered from starting as a newbie to becoming a more proficient user of virtual environments, from a sociological perspective, considering the influences on believes and values during these developments.