The purpose of this study was to explore how multi-user virtual environments(MUVEs)could be better utilized for spoken English learning and teaching based on the analysis of learning behavior, with an emphasis on pedagogical approaches to spoken English teaching in the Second Life virtual world．

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION

 1.1 Background of the study

 1.2 Statement of the problem

 1.3 Purpose of the study

 1.4 Significance of the study

Chapter 2 LITERATURE REVIEW

 2.1 Spoken language learning

 2.2 Major factors that affect spoken language learning

 2.3 Effectiveness of spoken language learning

 2.4 Learning behavior and its effect on academic achievement

 2.5 Language learning in MUVEs

 2.6 Current developments in language learning with technology

Chapter 3 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

 3.1 Second language acquisition

 3.2 Language learning in MUVEs

 3.3 Educational affordances of MUVEs

Chapter 4 METHODOLGY

 4.1 Design

 4.2 Instrumentation

 4.3 Data collection

Chapter 5 RESEARCH FINDINGS

 5.1 The current state of spoken English learning in the physical world

 5.2 Learning characteristics of the less proficient students

 5.3 Learning characteristics of the more proficient students

 5.4 Characteristics of spoken English learning in MUVEs

Chapter 6 DISCUSSION

 6.1 Spoken English learning in traditional learning contexts

 6.2 Pedagogical affordances of MUVEs for spoken English learning

 6.3 Behavioral characteristics of spoken English learners in MUVEs

 6.4 The conceptual framework of spoken English learning in MUVEs

 6.5 A pedagogical model of spoken English learning in MUVEs

 6.6 Pedagogical challenges of spoken English learning in MUVEs

Chapter 7 CONCLUSIONS

 7.1 Summary of major findings

 7.2 Pedagogical implications

 7.3 Limitations of this study

 7.4 Suggestions for further research

Appendix A A Questionnaire on Routine Spoken English Learning

Appendix B An Interview Protocol for Identifying Routine Spoken English Learning Behaviors

Appendix C An Interview Protocol for Identifying Spoken English Learning Behaviors in Second Life

Appendix D Observation Protocol

Appendix E Some Sample Oral Tasks

References

Acknowledgments