Learning Syllables in Malay Language through Augmented Reality Content for Preschool Children

Abstract

The rapid growth and widespread adoption of augmented reality (AR) opened new possibilities for seamless integration into various aspects of human life. In this context, educators increasingly explored the potential of AR to enhance learning experiences. This research focused on leveraging AR technology to address a specific problem encountered by preschoolers in their language learning journey. The problem at hand was that preschoolers often encountered difficulties in blending consonant-vowel and consonant-vowel (CV+CV) sounds to form words in the Malay language. While they could easily sound out individual consonants and vowels, they struggled with combining these sounds to create new words, hindering their reading and language development. To tackle this challenge, the proposed solution involved the development of an AR prototype aimed at making learning Malay language syllables engaging and enjoyable for preschoolers. The research’s output allowed children to practice forming syllables and improved their pronunciation through interactive AR experiences. Moreover, it offered quizzes to test their knowledge of Malay language syllables, providing instant feedback for a positive and effective learning experience. The survey presented the results of system testing, which revealed that a significant number of respondents had prior exposure to AR and found the research output's instructions clear and understandable. The integration of AR elements, such as 3D objects and marker detection, received positive feedback from most participants. However, some users expressed a desire for additional training, and there was potential to further enhance the app's level of excitement. In conclusion, this research demonstrated the promising role of AR in addressing preschoolers' challenges with language learning. By leveraging AR technology to create interactive and captivating learning tools, educators could better equip young learners with the necessary language skills, fostering a solid foundation for their reading and communication abilities in the Malay language.