High‐Immersion Virtual Reality for Pragmatics Development
Regina Kaplan‐Rakowski · The Encyclopedia of Applied Linguistics · 2025
Abstract Immersive learning environments such as high‐immersion virtual reality (VR) provide second‐language (L2) learners with opportunities to practice various language skills and competencies including pragmatic competence. Through a variety of settings and scenarios, VR facilitates L2 learners' engagement in language and culture‐rich activities that can reflect everyday real‐life situations and beyond. When interactions in the target language are difficult due to a limited access to available target language speakers, VR can be a useful environment to consider. The goal of this entry is threefold. First, it provides an overview of the potential of VR for pragmatics development. Second, it offers examples of existing studies on VR for pragmatics. Third, it outlines future research directions, especially with regard to nonverbal communication in VR.