Reconceptualization of textbook with the metaverse: pre-service English teachers’ experiences and perceptions of designing TechBoox

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the possibility of designing English textbooks based on the concept of the metaverse and using the new term TechBoox, which is a combination of Technology and Boox (modified from book with a greater emphasis on box as a spatial concept). To achieve this goal, this study documents the creation of TechBoox by a group of 23 pre-service English as a Foreign Language teachers in their teacher training program, who have converted learning content and materials from elementary English paper and digital textbooks into a three-dimensional metaverse platform. Thereafter, the research analyzes the participants’ perceptions and experiences regarding TechBoox ideation and creation. This is done through a qualitative case study approach with refleciton papers and semi-structured interviews. The findings suggest, on the one hand, that TechBoox has the potential to overcome the limitations of the static and two-dimensional nature of traditional textbooks through constructability for enhanced immersion, as well as experiential learning via direct participation in avatar movements. On the other hand, the study identifies the technological limitations of the concept in generating immersive content, access devices, potential distractions, and the novelty effect, which highlights the important role of teachers in the metaverse. Based on the findings, this study highlights the critical role of teacher training initiatives of emerging technology integration in language eudcaiton.