Use of a modified computer game as a tool for English vocabulary learning

2016 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 26370662
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Foreign language education
• Research Institution: Kyoto University
• Principal Investigator: Peterson Mark 京都大学, 人間・環境学研究科, 准教授 (90361732)
• Project Period (FY): 2014-04-01 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: CALL / SLA / digital games / e-learning

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In this mixed methods research, the investigator explored the use of a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) as an English vocabulary learning tool. Data sources included transcripts of learner interaction, observation, scores on vocabulary tests, questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Analysis of the test data reveals that the game provided significant opportunities to improve retention of low frequency English vocabulary. Researcher observation indicated that the participants found undertaking language tasks in the game to be a highly engaging and motivating activity. Positive findings were also revealed in the learner feedback. Participants indicted that they found playing the game to be an enjoyable and beneficial activity. They further noted that the game provided a low stress context for interaction that provided exposure to vocabulary not normally encountered in traditional learning settings.

Free Research Field

computer assisted language learning