Immersive video materials for standardized English-speaking tests: Development and ongoing application

This ongoing research is directed towards the development of immersive VR (Virtual Reality) materials for English standardized tests. Currently, computer-based standardized language tests have become a requirement to access education and employment opportunities worldwide. Nevertheless, standardized test-takers face issues related to anxiety, costs, and access, amongst others. We hypothesize that some of these issues could be solved effectively using VR materials. In order to test this hypothesis, we have undertaken the development and testing of 360-degree immersive video materials based on established computer-based English tests (i.e. EIKEN, GTEC, etc.). After analyzing existing tests, immersive videos and a first version of a VR application were successfully created. Subsequently, the application was tested with middle and high school-aged students. The trials revealed that the students were receptive to the equipment and most participants showed high rates of immersion. In
the future, we hope to further develop the material presented in this article.