CULTURAL ASPECTS AND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES: THE IMPACT OF MONDLY VR ON LANGUAGE LEARNING

Abstract

This study is devoted to assessing the impact of the Mondly VR program on foreign language learning and student motivation in various cultural contexts. As part of the first stage, a quasi-experimental study was conducted using pre-and post-tests, as well as a control group. The participants were 34 students studying a second foreign language. The results showed a significant improvement in the vocabulary of students using Mondly VR, compared with traditional teaching methods. In the second stage of the study, three focus groups were organized, consisting of students from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Thailand. Participants discussed the impact of Mondly VR on their motivation, confidence in communication, and enjoyment of the learning process. The main topics of discussion included engagement in learning, career prospects, social connections, and practical application of language. Data analysis revealed both common and unique aspects of VR perception depending on the cultural context. In general, the results of the study emphasize the potential of virtual reality as an effective tool in language teaching, as well as the need to take into account cultural factors to optimize educational methods. The results suggest that the integration of technologies such as Mondly VR can not only improve language acquisition, but also create a more interactive and enjoyable learning environment.