Opportunities and challenges in using augmented reality in ESL classroom: A Review

Abstract

Innovation of pedagogy and andragogy is always a challenge for teachers in English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms, and emerging technology has become a blessing for the challenges faced by the teachers. Among other integrated technologies as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR) can be regarded as the epitome of an ESL classroom offering dynamic and engaging learning experiences for the students providing vocabulary, cultural exchange by virtual language, supporting teachers to create an authentic environment fostering peace and harmony by promoting cultural understanding. Integrating AR activities emphasizes cultural exchange, effective communication, and empathy in the ESL classroom, which develops a deeper understanding of each other and contributes to a more harmonious and peaceful learning environment. Moreover, AR is highly advantageous in heutagogy emphasizing self-directed learning, and allowing individuals to determine the pace and style of their learning journey. Therefore, the present study reviews the opportunities and challenges of using AR in the English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom context. The study is focused on three main objectives such as to identify the opportunities available in using AR in ESL classrooms, to identify the challenges faced by the teachers when using AR, and to identify the challenges faced by the students in using AR in ESL classrooms. The review is based on the 50 research articles published in peer-reviewed journals accessed via Google Scholar and Research Gate within the last two decades. The findings were thematically analyzed in depth and identified the opportunities and challenges the teachers and students faced when using AR in an ESL context