Students' Perception on Using Second Life Virtual Platform to Improve English Language Proficiency

The advancement of educational and informational technology communication (ICT) has paved new alternatives for English language teaching and learning. The use of Virtual World has become increasingly popular compared to conventional methods. Second life is an example of a typical virtual phenomenon that has raised interest among educators around the world. Many educational institutions have turned to SL due to its immersive and interactive environment and offering classes to enhance their students' proficiency skills. This research is intended to elicit Iraqi students' perception on SL's potential as a virtual platform to improve English language learning. A qualitative case study was conducted. Data was collected through interviews. The research findings show that the learners were in favour of SL's potential on improving English language proficiency. SL is fun to use, and most important of all, the learners feel that it is a new alternative to English language learning and needs to be explored. (C) 2016 Published by Future Academy www.FutureAcademy.org.uk