International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE)
Vol 15, No 1: February 2026

Improving international students’ acculturation and Chinese vocabulary through problem-based learning with augmented reality

Jiang, Yirong (Unknown)
Tri Prabowo, Thoriq (Unknown)
Ratana-Olarn, Thanin (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Feb 2026

Abstract

The integration of problem-based learning (PBL) and augmented reality (AR) has emerged as a promising approach to improve language learning and acculturation. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a problem-based learning and augmented reality (PBLAR) instructional model to enhance international students’ acculturation and Chinese vocabulary. The study used a quasi-experimental design with 70 first-year international students randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG) (PBLAR, n=35) or a control group (CG) (traditional teaching method, n=35). The intervention lasted two weeks, and both groups completed a pre-test to ensure baseline comparability. The EG achieved significantly higher post-test scores in Chinese vocabulary (F=296.65, p<0.001) and acculturation (F=840.62, p<0.001). In this context, PBLAR demonstrated stronger short-term outcomes in Chinese vocabulary and acculturation; it should be viewed as a complementary pedagogy that highlights the value of integrating PBL and AR. Findings highlight PBLAR’s potential for immersive, problem-driven language instruction that bridges technology and pedagogy in multicultural contexts.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJERE

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE) is an interdisciplinary publication of original research and writing on education which publishes papers to international audiences of educational researchers. The IJERE aims to provide a forum for scholarly understanding of ...