Aberwla: Revolutionising Language Learning with Immersive VR
Aberwla is a cutting-edge VR language learning app designed to help learners develop real conversational skills in an engaging and interactive digital environment. Built around a virtual village, the app places users in real-world scenarios where they can practise speaking, listening, and responding naturally.
Challenge: Cyngor Gwynedd sought an innovative way to help pupils aged 7 to 14, especially newcomers, learn Welsh. They wanted an engaging tool that would fit with the current curriculum and boost learners' confidence in using the language.
Solution: We developed Aberwla, a virtual reality (VR) application designed to immerse children in a Welsh-speaking environment. In this pilot project, learners use VR headsets to create avatars and explore the imaginary town of Aberwla. They can visit places like a supermarket, where they complete tasks and interact with characters using Welsh. Up to 30 users can join the space simultaneously, practising their language skills in real-life scenarios.
There were many factors that we had to think about when developing Aberwla. It was an evolving project that grew as we moved through it. Working closely with the team at the Immersion Centre, we developed the right content and gamification elements to support the children in learning and practising Welsh.
We also had to consider safeguarding aspects. Since the application includes multiplayer functionality, we had to ensure the safety of the children. For example, what if one of the headsets was lost and accessed by someone outside the school system? To address this, we created separate builds for each school with headsets, treating the application as though it were a physical school. We also used ManageXR to manage the headsets, allowing us to shut down any headset remotely if it goes missing.
ManageXR provided another feature that was particularly useful for the children: kiosk mode. This setup allows students to turn on the headsets and go straight into the Aberwla application without needing to navigate menus. This streamlined approach maximised the time students could spend using the app for learning.
Outcome: Aberwla has been successfully introduced across multiple Welsh language immersion centres, with 105 VR headsets now distributed across centres spanning from Anglesey to Wrexham. Pupils have embraced the immersive experience, describing it as a fun and interactive way to practise Welsh.
The project has also gained industry recognition, winning the Best Education Application Award at the Wales Technology Awards 2024, hosted by Technology Connected. This prestigious accolade highlights Aberwla’s innovative approach to education and its impact on language learning.
This project has been recognised for its innovative approach to language learning and has contributed significantly to the goal of reaching one million Welsh speakers by 2050.
Client Testimonial: "We have been blown away at the reaction the kids have had with it so far!" - Gwern ap Rhisiart, Area Education Officer, Gwynedd Council Education Department
