The effect of 3D learning environments on speech skills in teaching Turkish as a foreign language

This research aims to investigate the effect of the lessons done in the Second Life 3D virtual learning environment on the speaking skills of the students learning Turkish as a foreign language. The universe of the study is B2 level foreign students who learn Turkish as a foreign language. The sample of the study consists of 32 foreign students at B2 level who learn Turkish in Istanbul University Language Center in the 2018-2019 academic year. Experimental and control groups were independently selected. All students participated in the Turkish language education A1, A2 and B1 levels in 21 weeks (7 weeks for each level) and by completing the level proficiency exam by all levels of institutions. During the application, the subjects of the lecture given previously were discussed in the classroom setting with the control group and in the Second Life setting with the experimental group. In addition to the presentations of the students, question-answer and brainstorming techniques were used in the speech classes. In the research, the mixed method, which used qualitative and quantitative research methods, was used. The quantitative data obtained from the pre-test and post-test were analyzed with Independent Group t-Test. The qualitative data obtained from the focus group interview and reflective diary were analyzed by content analysis method. According to the findings, many positive effects of the speech lessons given in the Second Life 3D virtual learning environment on students learning Turkish as a foreign language were determined.