Success of Metaverse Immersive Learning in ESOL Centres

As part of our ESOL offering, Ascentis provides cutting-edge Immersive Learning scenarios which have been developed in partnership with Metaverse Learning. As part of our joint vision to enhance the learning experience for students in the UK, we have developed eight scenarios in a range of environments where learners can engage independently and navigate their way through a variety of language interactions. Learners can practise and develop their language skills and be exposed to a range of contexts and situations in virtual reality. Similarly, the resource can be used by tutors with groups of learners as part of their course of study.

WM College Case Study

In March 2025, the usage of our Immersive Learning scenarios was explored at WM College in London. Digital Learning Manager Besim Gerguri and ESOL Advanced Learning Practitioner Sam Pepper, winner of the Mayor of London Adult Learning Award, initiated a comprehensive study examining whether immersive technology could enhance traditional teaching methodologies.

The College’s implementation of Ascentis’ ESOL Immersive Learning Platform was examined, revealing several benefits including:

• Enhanced confidence and communication skills - Learners utilising immersive technology reported increased self-assurance, attributing this enhancement to the realistic contextual environment, which strengthened their vocabulary acquisition, functional language development, and understanding of professional discourse patterns.
• Improved vocabulary acquisition - The platform’s integrated visual, audio, and contextual elements proved highly effective for numerous learners in retaining new vocabulary and functional phrases and the immersive simulations provided memorable learning experiences that enhanced language recall. 
• Advanced speaking skills development - Participants across both learning approaches demonstrated comfort with the new technology and reported an enhanced understanding of functional language.
• Learner perspectives and preferences - Feedback revealed distinct learning preferences with valuable insights.

Sam Pepper noted, “Learners found the software engaging and the situations realistic. Their feedback was very positive; they found it motivating and said they wanted more of it in their curriculum.”

Click here to read more.

Nelson and Colne College (NCC) Case Study

66 ESOL students at Nelson and Colne College (NCC) took part in a VR/VE pilot, the result of which highlighted the transformative power of immersive technology in language education. By providing an engaging, judgment-free space for practical communication, the platform boosted student confidence and competence significantly. As one student summarised, “It’s easy to learn new communication skills… when we came back out of that session, we knew a lot of new stuff to communicate.” 

Students taking part in the pilot showed significant improvement in:

• Communication Confidence: Reduced anxiety when speaking with native speakers.
• Practical Vocabulary: Acquisition of context-specific terminology.
• Real-world Preparedness: Familiarity with common UK scenarios.
• Cultural Knowledge: Understanding of British systems and customs.

Following the trial, 41 students participated in a survey which generated the following results:

One teacher said about the platform, “I think that would be really useful going forward, technology’s obviously the in thing and it gets students excited and they want to try something new.”.

Click here to read the full case study.

Watch our short video below to learn more about the benefits of our Immersive Learning scenarios.

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