HOW EFFECTIVE ARE ESL GAMES COMPARED TO TRADITIONAL LEARNING

  • Robert Heathfield Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok

Abstract

The focus of this research was to discover the effectiveness of educational games in acquiring vocabulary and conversation skills while learning English as a second language (ESL) in a Thai context. The study sought to examine how games and activities aided ESL learners in retaining vocabulary and engage in roleplay style activities because being able to use vocabulary accurately and in context can often be more important in language fluency than merely accomplishing grammatical competence. Educational games enable learners to acquire vocabulary and the relevant context subconsciously while they are engaged in activities. The result of using games and activities in the classroom is a playful atmosphere, which makes the teaching-learning process more engaging and so makes the learning experience more enjoyable for both the learner and the teacher. The data was collected from 6 English ESL classes totaling 160 learners from the SSRUIC Airline Business major. Evaluation checklist and survey questionnaires were selected as research tools. The data collected after analysis revealed that games could indeed accustom learners with new words and phrases and aid in deep-seated retention of vocabulary in a better, faster and more engaging way in comparison to memorization or textbook study. Games also help develop learners’ communicative abilities. Most of the learners interviewed recognized that the methods via games had advantages benefits in improving vocabulary and conversation skills. However, to improve certain limitations, the researcher suggests further study in this matter.

Author Biography

Robert Heathfield, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok

International College, Suan Sunandha Rajbhat University,

 Bangkok, Thailand

Published
2019-11-28
How to Cite
Heathfield, R. (2019). HOW EFFECTIVE ARE ESL GAMES COMPARED TO TRADITIONAL LEARNING. International Conference "Actual Economy: Local Solutions for Global Challenges", 197-204. Retrieved from https://conferaces.com/index.php/journal/article/view/108