The document discusses using virtual worlds to teach language skills through simulation. It proposes that virtual worlds allow students to practice languages in realistic scenarios, improving acquisition and cultural understanding. Business needs are addressed by ensuring content is relevant, globally accessible, and assessment is practical and affordable. A virtual language learning community called Cypris Village is described that aims to foster international friendships through a social space for speaking English informally or in organized classes.

1. Erin Barrett ESL Teacher Mike McKay Education Technology Researcher

2. Erin Barrett [email_address] Puyallup, WA BHS Human Services Trinity Certification TESOL 5 Years teaching English in Budapest, Hungary Second Generation Educational Technologist

3. Mike McKay [email_address] Mukogawa Women’s University Kobe, Japan BS in eBusiness M. Ed. in Technology Living in Japan since 2000 15 years web development experience 10 Years English teaching experience in Japan

5. Virtual worlds are changing the way we learn languages. Instead of studying a language, we can live in it. By guiding our students through realistic world simulations we can teach them invaluable lessons in language acquisition and cultural acclimation. Companies interested in their future employee's ability to speak English can be assured knowing that the university is providing them with current relative content and global exposure that is immediately applicable to their real life.

16. What do businesses need? Ask them Contact affiliated companies Surveys, Interviews, Job Shadowing

19. HOW?

24. Cypris Village is home to the Cypris Chat group; an international non-profit community for English language learning. The purpose of our group is to provide a virtual social networking and meeting place for people looking to SPEAK English rather than study it. We hope this community will foster friendships far and wide while at the same time providing a fun and safe environment for language learning.

36. I had many chance to learn English more when I was student…but was not so interested in it… and since I came in SL…I found its fun to communicate with people in English.. I come here 18 day, I think my English is better than my 10 years “student”.

39. ESP classrooms benefit most from the use of simulated learning environments. The web and virtual worlds can provide a flexible means of delivering relevant, engaging, motivating lessons that are easily accessible, assessable and cost efficient. Thank you Erin Barrett [email_address] Mike McKay [email_address]