Innovative approaches to teaching foreign languages at the university: the use of blended learning and virtual reality technologies

Abstract

This article is devoted to the analysis of innovative approaches to teaching foreign languages in higher educational institutions. Modern education is extremely dynamic, and in the context of globalization and the development of information technology, the need for high-quality learning of foreign languages is steadily increasing. Of particular interest is the use of blended learning and virtual reality (VR) technologies, which can significantly transform the learning process. The study is based on the analysis of empirical data obtained as a result of teaching students at leading universities. The English language study programs implemented in the period 2020-2023 were chosen as the basis. The study used methods of quantitative and qualitative analysis, including statistical processing of student test results and teacher questionnaires. Special attention was paid to the study of the effectiveness of using VR in teaching, as well as the analysis of the combination of traditional and innovative teaching methods. As a result of the analysis, it was found that blended learning, combining classical teaching methods with interactive online sessions, helps to increase the level of student engagement. The use of VR technologies, including language environment simulators and interactive virtual tours, has improved the quality of foreign language learning. It was noted that the use of VR increases the efficiency of vocabulary memorization by an average of 27% compared to traditional methods. The survey showed that 83% of students noted an increased interest in learning the language through the use of VR.