THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GAMIFICATION IN TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Abstract

Gamification has emerged as an innovative pedagogical approach that integrates game elements into non-game educational contexts to enhance learner motivation and engagement. In English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms, particularly at the tertiary level, traditional teaching methods often fail to sustain students’ interest and active participation. This study explores the effectiveness of gamification in teaching English by examining its impact on student motivation, engagement, and language skill development. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from undergraduate EFL students through pre- and post-tests, questionnaires, and classroom observations. The findings indicate that gamified instruction significantly improves learner motivation, participation, and overall language performance. The study concludes that gamification is a valuable methodological tool for EFL teachers and recommends its systematic integration into English language curricula.