Research
The Center for Languages and Intercultural Communication (ZSI) at Augsburg University of Applied Sciences combines language instruction with applied research. Its focus is on innovative approaches to language learning, intercultural communication, and the use of digital technologies in language instruction.
The ZSI’s research priorities include language pedagogy and language learning, intercultural communication, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) in language and higher education.
Current Research Projects
In its current research projects, the ZSI is investigating how digital technologies and innovative teaching approaches can support language learning and intercultural education.
DFG Project
Development and research of AI-supported virtual reality scenarios for learning German as a technical and professional language.
An innovative mentoring project to investigate the use of virtual reality in exam preparation.
Avartopia
This interdisciplinary project combines virtual reality and artificial intelligence with issues related to education and democracy.
Completed Projects
Other ZSI research and development projects focus, among other things, on virtual reality, intercultural citizenship, Global Englishes, digital learning formats, and innovative approaches to language teaching.
“Augmented Reality Instructional Design for Language Learning – ARIDLL” (2022-1-NO01-KA220-HED-000088034) Erasmus+
https://aridll.eu/
“Global Citizenship Education in VR for Foreign Language Learning (VR_GCE)” (Foundation for Innovation in Higher Education) (Freiraum 2022)
Project Results - Resources for Teachers and Learners:
1) GCE: Sustainable Consumption
, with the note: Password for guest access: 1_Sustainability2) GCE: Justice
, with the note: Password for guest access: 1_Justice
STEAM to the power of 3—international, interdisciplinary, innovative. (2022). With Karin Bukenberger at Reutlingen University of Applied Sciences; grant awarded by the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft.
"Fostering Intercultural Citizenship with Virtual Reality in a World Language Virtual Exchange Project" (2021), with Manuela Wagner at the University of Connecticut; grant awarded by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
Modeling Plurilithic Orientations to English in Trainee Teachers: A Comparative International Study. (2020). With Hall, C. (Principal Investigator) and Xian, Y. Grant awarded by the British Association of Applied Linguistics (BAAL) Applying Linguistics Fund.
Practicing Presenting and Debating Using Interactive Videos and Peer Teaching in Virtual Reality (VR) (2020). Grant awarded by HUMUS Plus (Pedagogical and Methodological Support for Student-Initiated Learning Processes at Universities of Applied Sciences in Baden-Württemberg).
Junior Fellowship (2019). Designing and Implementing Innovative Teaching/Learning Formats in Foreign Language Instruction. Grant awarded by the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft.
Evaluation of Gamified Foreign Language Tools in Foreign Language Learning. (2018). Grant awarded by HUMUS (University-Based Didactic and Methodological Support for Self-Initiated Learning Processes at Universities of Applied Sciences in Baden-Württemberg).
The Transition from GCSE to A-Level Languages in the UK—How Can the Gap Be Closed? (2014). Grant awarded by the British Association of Applied Linguistics (BAAL) Applying Linguistics Fund.
