Play Computer Games or Study? How English-as-a-Foreign-Language Students Learn Vocabulary With Computer Games

• In Event: Games, Play, and Learning

Abstract

This study compared how 57 English as a Foreign Language Chinese undergraduates learned vocabulary with computer games versus hardcopy booklets. In the control condition, students read booklets with text passages containing new vocabulary words, lists of new vocabulary words with Chinese translations, English definitions parts of speech, and then took hardcopy multiple choice comprehension questions on new vocabulary. In the experimental condition, students read text passages online, with new vocabulary words hyperlinked with definitions and Chinese translations, and then played computer games involving making inferences using new vocabulary words. Students were pre- and post-tested on new vocabulary words with the vocabulary Knowledge Scale. Participants learned significantly more vocabulary (p < 0.0005) with computer games than with their usual study method.

Authors

• Glenn Gordon Smith, University of South Florida

• Mimi Li, University of South Florida

• Jack Drobisz, University of South Florida

• Ho Ryong Park, Murray State University

• Deoksoon Kim, University of South Florida