Public speaking is a fundamental aspect of multilingual communication, often hindered by Foreign Language Anxiety (FLA). Using Oculus Quest 2 headsets, this research explored Virtual Reality's (VR) potential as a tool for language students to develop their public speaking skills, particularly those facing FLA. The study assessed the effects of variations in virtual audience size and ethnic diversity on English learners. While VR reduced some aspects of anxiety, larger and ethnically diverse virtual audiences increased the perceived presence, diverting the speaker's concentration. It was also observed that participants with significant in-person FLA experienced comparable levels of anxiety in VR. Participants recognised VR's usefulness for rehearsal, confidence enhancement, and content improvement. However, challenges in preparation, fluency, and anxiety handling were still present. Crucial aspects such as avatar choice, audience behaviour in VR, and differences between VR and real-life presentations were highlighted. To conclude, while VR offers exciting prospects for enhancing presentation techniques and curbing anxiety, there is a need for more realistic audience simulations and strategies to confront public speaking fears.

Authors:
Damaris D E Carlisle, LASALLE College of the Arts, Singapore
Seonjeong Park, Goldsmiths University of London, United Kingdom
Sylvia Xueni Pan, Goldsmiths University of London, United Kingdom
Marco Gillies, Goldsmiths University of London, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Damaris Carlisle, who leads The Learning Centre at LASALLE College of the Arts, offers academic support to both students and staff. Her research focuses on digital technology in fostering an inclusive, digitally accessible campus.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/damaris-carlisle-34589678/

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Damaris-Carlisle

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

Bookmark