Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is redefining French language education through a new immersive digital ecosystem that combines artificial intelligence, virtual reality and personalised learning tools to help students build confidence and improve real-world communication skills.

The initiative is part of the university’s French as a Foreign Language (FLE) programme and is designed to give students more opportunities to practise spoken French in realistic, interactive environments beyond the traditional classroom.

At the centre of the system are AI-powered conversational avatars, VR-based learning simulations and “Nora”, a personalised AI assistant accessible via mobile devices. Together, these tools create a continuous learning environment where students can practise speaking, receive instant feedback and progressively improve their fluency at their own pace.

The approach has already received international recognition. In 2025, five VR language learning experiences developed by the university were awarded the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) Pedagogical Innovation Prize, highlighting the growing global relevance of immersive education technologies.

AI avatars designed to simulate real conversation

Developed in collaboration with VRAI Learning, the AI avatars are designed to replicate real-life oral examinations and conversations. They respond dynamically to student arguments, ask follow-up questions and provide structured feedback on pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary and discourse.

Each week, the avatars are trained around specific curriculum themes, ensuring students engage in structured, topic-based discussions aligned with their coursework rather than generic AI interactions. The system also allows repeated practice, enabling learners to refine their responses and build confidence over time.

The pilot phase involved around 40 students working in small groups, with instructors able to access full transcripts, AI-generated assessments and progress reports to better support individual learning needs.

VR simulations bring French into real-world contexts

Alongside AI avatars, students also train in six virtual reality environments that simulate everyday French-speaking scenarios such as bakeries, restaurants, train stations, hotels, fashion boutiques and interactive kitchens.

Within these environments, learners complete practical tasks entirely in French—from ordering food and buying tickets to checking into hotels and following recipes—while interacting in real time.

Introduced in early 2026 in partnership with VRAI Learning, the VR programme integrates gamification and AI feedback to create an action-oriented learning experience that positions students as active participants in their language development.

Personalised AI support through “Nora”

The ecosystem is further supported by Nora, a personalised AI assistant designed specifically for Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi students. Since 2023, Nora has provided grammar guidance, writing support, oral practice tools, transcription analysis and microlearning exercises aligned with course content.

Building confidence and reducing language anxiety

According to the university, student feedback from VR and AI-based learning tools has shown increased speaking confidence, reduced anxiety and greater willingness to engage in spontaneous conversation.

One student, Mansoor Banasser, said the immersive experience made speaking French feel more natural and less intimidating.

Academic leadership on the future of language education

Dr Aude Solveig-Epstein, Provost of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, said the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to combining academic rigour with new technologies that enhance accessibility and engagement.

Faculty members involved in the project also emphasised that AI tools are designed to complement—not replace—teachers, by expanding opportunities for practice and enabling more personalised feedback.

A shift toward immersive, technology-driven learning

By integrating AI, VR and adaptive learning systems, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation in language education. The approach reflects a broader shift in higher education towards experiential, student-centred learning models that prioritise communication, autonomy and real-world application.

The university continues to expand its digital learning ecosystem as part of its broader mission to make language learning more immersive, accessible and effective.