The project aimed to revolutionise foreign language education (FLE) for medical professionals in Europe by integrating immersive mixed reality (MR) technology, speech recognition, and artificial intelligence. Recognising the growing trend and potential of XR technologies in education, the project sought to address the critical need for effective and efficient MR learning through the proper integration of pedagogy, technology, and organisational culture. The primary goals of the project included: 1. Identification of the appropriate contents of medical language courses suitable for transfer into MR applications. 2. Development of the customised collaboration procedure for design and implementation of immersive simulations in FL training. 3. Bringing the technology closer through a developed demonstration toolkit for its experiencing and understanding. 4. Pilot development of mixed technology LE modules, for practical application of training scenarios in professional language skills improvement for nursing and their implementation into the training curricula of partner institutions. 5. Course for FL teaching staff helping to create the required tools together with software developers and mplement MR into the teaching and learning.
The increasing life expectancy in the EU has led to significant workforce shortages in the health and social care sectors. By 2035, Germany alone is projected to face up to 1.8 million vacancies in these fields. Recruiting foreign specialists is seen as a viable solution, but these professionals often need to quickly acquire sufficient language skills to function effectively in their roles. Traditional language learning methods have limitations in capacity, flexibility, and practical application, necessitating innovative solutions like DR FLEMP. One of the emerging opportunities to accelerate the development and improvement of learning competences lies in using XR instruments, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), or a combination of both (mixed reality or MR), along with integrated speech recognition and artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Learners can practice and improve their language skills through immersion in contextualised environments within the VR simulation, enjoying rich and diverse sensory experiences. Supported by AI, these simulations provide realistic, interactive communication scenarios, serving the goal of better, faster, and self-guided professional language learning.