Behind the Screens: English Language Learners’ Out-of-School Literacy Engagement in World of Warcraft (WoW)

• In Event: Technology-Mediated Learning Environments

Abstract

This qualitative study sought to understand adolescent English Language Learners’ language literacy engagement in online gaming environments. Nowadays, it is common to find that young people spend time on video games out of school. However, students’ motivation to learning declines at school. The literature suggests students can be motivated to learn and their engagement can be fostered when learning environment is enhanced, especially in varied media, both in and out of school” (Phelps, 2004, p. 7). The majority of research on literacy engagement has been conducted with native English speakers within the classroom context. Consequently, this study focused on the population of ELLs. Four ELL participants were interviewed and observed during their gaming. Implications for parents, teachers and educators are provided.

Authors

• Zhuo Li, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen Graduate School

• Chu-Chuan Chiu, University of Florida