Project Overview
This project aims to develop a Virtual Reality (VR) based language learning platform. The platform creates immersive, interactive virtual environments that simulate real-life scenarios, offering a revolutionary approach to language education. By leveraging VR technology, the project seeks to provide learners with a more engaging, effective, and accessible method of language acquisition that goes beyond traditional learning techniques.
Background
In today’s globalized world, language learning has become increasingly popular, with over 1.5 billion people worldwide actively studying a second language. Despite this, only about 25% achieve conversational proficiency, and more than half of learners eventually give up due to limited engagement and the challenges of traditional study methods.
Popular apps like Duolingo have attracted over 500 million users, yet around 40% drop off within the first month. While these platforms are accessible, they often lack the cultural context essential for real-life fluency.
Problem
Lack of Motivation and Engagement
あ
Traditional language learning is often tedious, centered on memorizing vocab and grammar. Many learners quickly lose motivation when progress feels slow and give up early.
"Reading, Lectures, Grammar, Quizzes... No Fun"
Lack of Contextual Learning
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Lessons focus on isolated vocab and grammar that feel far from real-life use. Without context, learners struggle to apply knowledge in everyday conversations.
Disconnect from Textbook and Real Life Dialogue
Easy to forget
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Without a real environment to trigger memory, knowledge is quickly forgotten. Relying only on books and tools makes it hard to retain words and grammar over time.
" I had forgotten most of my vocabulary within weeks…"
Cultural Disconnection
え
Without cultural context, learners may memorize rules and forms but fail to use them naturally. Real conversations demand understanding of social nuance and setting.
Cannot understand the “Nuance” “Politeness” in real conversations
Limited Access to Immersion
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Immersion is the most effective way to learn a language, but it’s often inaccessible. Studying or living abroad requires high costs in both time and money.
Traveling abroad sounds good but No Money, No Time
If we can access to "Immersion"
🧳 ✈️ 🇯🇵
Too shy to talk to natives
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I am afraid of making mistakes, not confident about my level...
Too hard for beginners
い
う
No “patient” partners for repetition
Without a real environment to trigger memory, knowledge is quickly forgotten. Relying only on books and tools makes it hard to retain words and grammar over time.
" I had forgotten most of my vocabulary within weeks…"
え
No evaluation and feedback
They are too police and kind. They will not correct me ...
Approach
Immersive + Personalized + Engaging -> VR + AI + Gamification
Virtual Reality
Immersive real-life practice scenarios
Strengthening memory through spatial context
Accessible alternative to study abroad
Safe environment reducing learning anxiety
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Adaptive adjustment of task difficulty
Personalized vocabulary and grammar support
Authentic dialogue with virtual characters
Continuous feedback for language progress
Gamification
Interactive and engaging game mechanics
Daily tasks encouraging language practice
Increased motivation and learner stickiness
Experiencing cultural and historical content
Interface & Mechanics
Word - Word
Learners can click on text in the VR environment, such as signs or menus, to access AI-generated dictionary information. Each word shows definitions, Romaji and Hiragana pronunciation, and example sentences, reinforcing vocabulary through contextual usage.
Object - Word
Clicking on 3D objects like food or tools triggers AI responses showing the Japanese word, pronunciation, and usage examples. This links vocabulary to physical objects, enhancing recall through spatial memory.
AI Chat
AI-driven NPCs act as shopkeepers or guides, offering adaptive dialogues based on learner performance. With speech recognition and synthesis, learners practice authentic conversations while receiving grammar, translation, and vocabulary support.
Gamnification:
Game mechanics such as life status, hunger, and currency encourage learners to complete daily tasks like shopping, working, or socializing. These activities reward progress, reduce reliance on translation, and sustain motivation.
