Background

Embodied theories of language propose that the way we communicate verbally is grounded in our body. Inner Child is a novel virtual reality (VR) system designed to enhance adult language learning by leveraging the immersive capabilities of room-scale VR to embody child avatars.

The Process

We built an experience in Unity for the HTC Vive, using additional Vive trackers to achieve full-body tracking via inverse kinematics and sensors on the feet, knees, waist, and hands. Sixty participants underwent a learning scenario in a virtual classroom, divided into three groups: adult avatar, child avatar, and no avatar.

Results showed significantly higher pattern recall in the immediate and delayed post-intervention periods for participants in a child avatar. This suggests that embodying child avatars can foster a childlike mindset, reducing socio-psychological barriers and enhancing language acquisition.

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