영어 교육에서 3D 아바타의 유용성 탐색 연구 : 초등영어 화상수업을 중심으로

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the usefulness of 3D avatars in the case of English video conferencing classes. For this aim, the study investigated elementary school students’ perception about the use of avatars when speaking in English, the effect of using avatars on the Willingness To Communicate(WTC) in English and on satisfaction with English video conferencing class. Most of the participants, except one, responded positively to the class using 3D avatars. ‘The novelty and fun elements of avatars’ was considered to be the biggest advantage of using avatars and ‘limitations in motion recognition such as raising hand’ was answered as the biggest drawback. Anonymity of using avatars did not seem to have significant effect on the willingness to communicate in English and the avatar effect on class satisfaction is not significant either, compared to other elements such as the class composition and teacher’s teaching skills. At the end of the study, practical suggestions were made to improve the educational usefulness of using 3D avatars based on class observations and in-depth interviews with participants.