# The effectiveness of virtual reality for K-12 foreign language learning: a systematic review of recent randomized controlled trials

## TL;DR

This paper reviews recent studies on using VR for K-12 foreign language learning and finds mixed evidence of its effectiveness.

## Contribution

The paper provides a systematic review of recent RCTs on VR in foreign language learning, highlighting methodological issues and mixed outcomes.

## Key findings

- VR interventions showed positive effects on vocabulary and listening skills compared to non-VR controls.
- VR consistently improved long-term knowledge retention in language learning.
- The evidence base is heterogeneous and methodologically weak, making broad conclusions difficult.

## Abstract

Despite the increasing adoption of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) in K−12 educational settings, there is a notable absence of systematic, high-quality experimental research evaluating its efficacy in facilitating foreign language acquisition.

Following a systematic search of five databases that yielded 1,054 records, six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the inclusion criteria. Because of considerable heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was conducted following the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) guideline, with findings structured into a primary contrast (VR vs. non-VR) and a secondary analysis (VR vs. VR designs).

The primary contrast analysis indicated that VR interventions generally had a positive effect compared to non-VR controls, particularly for vocabulary and listening. A notable finding was a consistent positive effect for VR in promoting long-term knowledge retention. The risk of bias evaluation indicated that each of the included studies was classified as presenting “some concerns”.

Across a small and heterogeneous set of recent RCTs, immersive VR shows promising effects, especially for long-term retention. However, the evidence for immediate learning gains is inconclusive. A more critical finding is the profound heterogeneity and methodological concerns within the evidence base, which preclude any single, overarching conclusion about VR's effectiveness.