Identifying Learners’ Needs and Design Features in Augmented Reality Application for Learning Mandarin Vocabulary: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Global communication has become narrower and simpler and resulted to the increased demand of foreign language learning. Due to this, more effort has been taken up especially in tertiary level to further improve learning experience in line with the increasing demand and needs of learners in learning. More suitable digital materials are needed and Augmented Reality (AR) is seen able to be utilized. However, AR uses and how it complies to certain principles of language teaching and learning have become a concern. Therefore, this paper attempts to identify the needs of learners in AR learning environment as well as identifying the features required in the content and design of AR application for Mandarin vocabulary learning. This quantitative research involves 320 purposely selected respondents and utilizes a set of survey questionnaire comprises of three parts. The findings, based on descriptive analysis, show that high majority of learners are very positive about the statements in the questionnaire especially in the design aspects with some exceptions in the perceived ease of use, usefulness and intention of use categories. These findings are useful in providing clearer needs of the learners and design requirements in learning Mandarin vocabulary using AR.