Vernacular Reality: Developing VR for Language Learning

In this episode of Language Matters, Molly sits down with native Tagalog speaker and former DLS Academic Advisor, Joemer. They discuss various aspects of the Tagalog language, plus the other languages of the Philippines. Sit back and enjoy this fascinating episode about the Tagalog language!

In this episode, we talk with Kate (DLS Recruiting Manager and wellness expert) about nutrition for language learning in honor of World Nutrition Day! Kate shares tangible tips for how and what to eat to help optimize your brain for language learning. Enjoy!

In this episode of Language Matters, we are discussing holidays! Join us as Molly sits down with DLS Instructors Reem and Wita, plus staff member Faraidoon. They discuss Eid al-Fitr and Ramadan traditions across Syria, Indonesia, and Afghanistan. Sit back and enjoy this fascinating episode about Ramadan and Eid celebrations!

In this episode of Vernacular Reality, we talk with DLS Project Manager, Katia, about her role in developing virtual reality scenarios for language learning. Katia shares insights on the ability to customize VR scenarios for different levels, plus the continuity of pre- and post-work. Enjoy!

In this episode of Vernacular Reality, we talk with DLS Language Training team member, Lia, about language immersions in virtual reality. As a Chinese instructor herself, Lia shares insights from the development of DLS Chinese immersions to the student trials. Enjoy!

In this episode of Vernacular Reality, listen in on our conversation with Doug North Cook, immersive media program coordinator and professor, and lead instructor at Falling Water's Immersive Design Residency. We discuss all aspects of designing immersive software, including the inspiration for it, the execution of it, and how to optimize user experiences - especially for learning. Enjoy!

In this episode of Vernacular Reality, Blythe and Sean talk with Jim Toepel, design/product manager working with "weird interfaces" (from VR to Rock Band). They discuss the formative experience where they met, how one's relationship to software changes when moving our bodies in new and different ways, and all the benefits of engaging with immersive software. Enjoy!

In this episode, Blythe and Sean sit down with Jordan Higgins, XR Designer and adjunct faculty at the George Mason University School of Art! The two VR experts discuss their experiences working with AR/VR in general and for training, plus exciting innovations in the industry. Enjoy!

In this episode of Vernacular Reality, Blythe and Sean discuss a variety of virtual reality apps that Sean has used in the past, the features he likes about each, and how each program has influenced his VR work at Diplomatic Language Services. From exercise to meditation, you might be surprised at just how much inspiration our language learning program took from other apps. Enjoy!

In this episode of Language Matters, Molly sits down with native Somali speakers and DLS instructors, Aweis and Arale. They discuss various aspects of the Somali language including the origins of Somali and where it is spoken now, the different dialects, and the ease at which it is to speak Somali if you are simply able to read. Sit back and enjoy this fascinating episode about the Somali language!