ABSTRACT VIEW
VOIX VIRTUELLES: ENHANCING ORAL PRODUCTION SKILLS THROUGH VIRTUAL SPEECH IN FRENCH LANGUAGE LEARNING
M.I. Navarrete Bear, J. Álvarez Ramírez, C.T. Segura Domínguez
Tecnológico de Monterrey (MEXICO)
In the rapidly evolving landscape of educational technology, innovative methods are essential to enhance language learning experiences. "Voix Virtuelles" is a pioneering project that integrates Virtual Speech, a cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) tool, to improve oral production skills in French as a Foreign Language (FLE) students. Conducted during the January to May 2024 semester at PrepaTec Campus Tampico, the study explores the potential of VR technology in revolutionizing language education. By leveraging AI and NLP, Virtual Speech provides real-time feedback on pronunciation, fluency, and grammatical accuracy, allowing students to practice in immersive, realistic environments. This approach not only increases student engagement and motivation but also significantly improves their oral communication skills. The project involved 56 students aged 16 to 19 years, focusing on preparing them for the DELF certification, an international exam that assesses French language proficiency. Through qualitative action-research methodology, data was collected via interviews and direct observations, demonstrating a 30% increase in fluency, a 25% reduction in grammatical errors, and a 40% boost in confidence levels.

The success of "Voix Virtuelles" underscores the transformative potential of VR in language learning. The project's findings highlight its applicability across various educational contexts, offering a versatile tool for enhancing language proficiency. The integration of advanced technologies like AI and NLP ensures a personalized learning experience, catering to different proficiency levels and learning styles. As students interact with realistic VR scenarios, they gain practical speaking experience, crucial for language acquisition and exam preparation. This innovation in pedagogical methods supports broader educational trends such as life-long learning and digital literacy, preparing students for real-world interactions. Future research could explore the long-term impacts of VR on language retention and its application in other aspects of language learning, such as listening comprehension and reading skills. The "Voix Virtuelles" project exemplifies how VR, combined with AI and NLP, can reshape the future of language education, enhancing student engagement, motivation, and overall learning outcomes.

Annex A: Evidence of Virtual Speech Utilization
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4quhgsP9TH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4oqWB7vrtV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Keywords: Virtual Speech, Language Learning, Oral Production, French, Education Technology, Natural Language Processing, Virtual Reality, DELF Preparation.