Introducing Teen Talk: Social Squares

We are thrilled to introduce our newest lesson, Teen Talk: Social Squares! This guide provides answers to common questions about the lesson's features, including our new Learner Decision system, enhanced data collection methods, and flexible player movement options. Check it out and let us know what you think!

What’s new in this lesson?

So many things! Most notably, we are so excited to introduce our first set teenagers to the Floreoverse! They may look like new faces but they’re actually quite familiar. In this lesson, you get to meet teenage Ayanna, Brandon, Carlos, and May! We have also introduced some new features for the Learner to interact with the lesson including new ways to move around the environment, a new Learner Decision, and updated data collection. Keep reading to learn more about those! 

What skills does Teen Talk focus on?

The lesson addresses two main skill areas:

• Social Communication: Enhancing abilities in asking and answering questions, and improving pragmatic language skills.
• Social Problem-Solving: Developing skills in adapting questions and recognizing conversational cues.

How does the lesson work?

Learners receive a bingo card filled with characteristics such as, “Likes video games” or “Enjoys singing.” They navigate around a virtual park to interact with different teenagers, asking them questions to identify which characteristics match each person. The teens also ask the learners questions, promoting reciprocal communication. The goal is to complete the bingo card by successfully checking off all 9 squares.

You mentioned a new feature,“Learner Decision.” What is that?

Great question! The Learner Decision feature acts as the learner's controller within the lesson. Choice boxes appear in the Learner's headset and are activated through their eye gaze. This allows Learners to make autonomous choices during the experience, such as selecting Continue to progress the lesson forward or I’m Ready for Questions to indicate they’re ready to be asked a question by a teen. 

What are the new Player Movement options in the lesson?

Learners can now choose from multiple paths within the virtual park. This open-world style movement allows them to decide where to go and whom to interact with, providing a more personalized and immersive experience. 

You said data collection is also a little different. How does this work?

The updated data collection system enables coaches to track learner performance seamlessly without interrupting the Learner's experience. Coaches can monitor interactions, question-asking efficiency, and overall progress in real-time, allowing for more effective and timely feedback. 

Are there any prerequisites for this lesson?

Learners should have foundational conversational skills, like responding to greetings and responding to comments or questions. The lesson is designed to be accessible for Learners of various skill levels, focusing on improving social communication and problem-solving skills through interactive and engaging gameplay.