Linguistic Impact of Augmented Reality (AR) on English Language Use

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) technology has begun to significantly influence human interaction with language, particularly in English language use. Hence, this research examined the influence of Augmented Reality (AR) on communication patterns, the emergence of specialized AR-related language, and its impact on English language norms. For this purpose, 10 Students from the MA TEFL workshop at Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, were selected to conduct detailed interviews. Interview data and its content were analyzed linguistically. These students were also teachers, so the data were used both ways. Through linguistic analysis, it was found that Augmented Reality (AR) significantly influences English language communication patterns by notable shifts in vocabulary, syntax, and discourse structures. Integrating AR-specific terms into everyday language among MA TEFL students signifies a transformative impact on linguistic norms, reflecting a deeper entwinement of language and technology. The study's findings recommended that language educators and curriculum developers should actively integrate AR technology and its associated linguistic elements into English language teaching and learning frameworks.