Exploring the role of immersion in VR-mediated virtual exchange

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) is a powerful tool for language acquisition and intercultural communication, as it creates immersive, interactive environments that can enhance language learning (Dhimolea et al., 2022) and facilitate authentic intercultural exchanges (Canto et al., 2023; Gruber et al., 2023). However, the specific relationship between different levels of VR immersion and a user's sense of presence and engagement remains underexplored. This study addresses that gap by investigating how varying immersion levels affect virtual exchange outcomes. The research involved 24 students from Utrecht University and Valencia University. After an initial connection on Microsoft Teams, they completed four dyadic tasks over five weeks. Two tasks were conducted in a high-immersion VR environment using Meta Quest 3 headsets, while the other two were performed in a lowimmersion environment via laptops and tablets. All tasks used the FrameVR platform. Data were collected through weekly reflections, surveys, focus groups, and session recordings. Preliminary findings from the final surveys and focus group interviews suggest that high-immersion VR fostered a greater sense of presence and more natural communication, leading to deeper interpersonal connections. Conversely, low-immersion interactions were found to be functional but less emotionally engaging. Participants also reported varying comfort levels with the VR equipment.