Lexi Explorer

I’ve been building Lexi Explorer, a browser-based language learning platform that uses interactive 3D environments to help people learn vocabulary through exploration and context.

The idea started quite simply: instead of learning vocabulary only through traditional exercises, what if learners could walk around a virtual environment, discover objects, hear their names, and connect new words with the things they represent?

The first release taught me a lot about the gap between how a developer expects a product to work and how a first-time user actually experiences it. One example was movement and interaction in the 3D world. I assumed users would understand it naturally, but people with little or no gaming experience often had no idea what to do after entering the environment. So, I added tutorials, movement instructions, and clearer guidance throughout the experience.

Since then, I’ve focused more on the overall learning flow. Lexi Explorer now combines 3D exploration, vocabulary activities, grammar lessons, sentence building, dialogue, speaking practice, and mini-games.

At the same time, I’ve been researching the learning structure behind these features. Not all language content needs to be presented in the same way. Concrete vocabulary can benefit from spatial and interactive representation, while other vocabulary and language concepts may be better introduced through simpler visual representations. This has led me to think about how learners can gradually move from concrete representations toward more abstract language use.

So, Lexi Explorer is no longer just about putting language learning inside a 3D world. I’m trying to understand how different representations and activities can work together to create a more coherent learning experience.

There’s still a lot to improve, but the product has changed significantly from the first version. And the biggest lesson so far has been that building, testing with real users, and rethinking the underlying learning approach all need to happen together.