MARVL facilitates new language learning in an AR environment. Animated characters deliver instructions, encouragement, and demonstrate concepts, using research-based best practices. MARVL builds on traditional flashcards with animated AR “teachers” who coexist in the learner’s environment. Using evidence-based best instructional practices, MARVL's animated characters teach word meanings, features of text and spelling, and demonstrate concepts in both English and the child’s first language. With MARVL, children can learn new words on their own or with a parent – even if the parent doesn’t speak English.