The Application of Augmented Reality in English Phonics Learning Performance of ESL Young Learners

Phonics is an essential foundation needed to build up reading and writing abilities for English learning. However, most students who learned English as a second language have not learned phonics systematically and appropriately, resulting in failed pronunciation in reading and writing English words. For eliminating struggles and barriers in the process of English learning, the new technology and interactive apps are a dynamic avenue assisting with understanding and retention for ESL elementary students. The study was conducted with augmented reality (AR) technology to integrate virtual objects and video clips into the interactive learning environment for second language learning. The effects of students' phonics learning performance were assessed. The results indicated that AR technology had validated the possibility of carrying out digital immersive language learning and embodied cognition, regardless of the drills of rote memorization. The concerns of the curriculum design based on the incorporation of the AR technology and learning materials are discussed further to improve phonics efficiency and competency for English as second language learners.