Do Speech Practice Platforms Enhance Speaking Skills Through Gamification?

Gamification, the application of game-design elements in non-game settings, has shown potential for improving language learning outcomes, particularly in speaking practice where learners often face challenges with fluency, pronunciation, and confidence. This qualitative study investigates the effectiveness of a speech practice platform, named Speechling, enhanced by gamified features through the lens of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Over a three-month period, seven elementary-level EFL learners used the platform with teacher guidance, exploring how gamification influenced their speaking skill development, focusing on UTAUT constructs such as performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), social influence (SI), and facilitating conditions (FC).Data were collected through participant interviews and reflective journals and analyzed thematically. The results indicated positive impacts on speaking performance (PE), with learners reporting noticeable improvements in fluency and pronunciation accuracy. The gamified elements and intuitive interface contributed to a positive perception of the platform’s ease of use (EE). Although social influence (SI) was minimal due to limited peer interaction, teacher support and access to essential resources played a key role in facilitating student engagement (FC). These findings provide valuable insights for educators, offering practical recommendations for integrating speech practice platforms to enhance speaking skills in EFL contexts.

کلیدواژه ها:

Gamification ، Speechling ، Speaking Practice ، Unified Theory of Acceptance And Use of Technology (UTAUT)