The Effectiveness of Computerized Gamification Tools in Teaching English Idioms in Virtual Classrooms

Teaching idiomatic expressions effectively remains a challenge in EFL contexts. Game-based learning has emerged as a way to increase learner engagement and improve language learning outcomes. The present study examined the effectiveness of computerized game-based learning in teaching English idioms to EFL learners through interactive digital activities and games in a fully virtual classroom. Three types of computerized games were designed and implemented: a story-based adventure game entitled The Lost Map, an interactive Wordwall, and Graphics Interchange Format-based GIF-based visual games. The participants were ۱۲۰ EFL learners selected from English language institutes and private schools. They were divided into three experimental groups and one control group. While the experimental groups received idiom instruction through computerized gamified activities, the control group was taught through conventional instructional methods. ANOVA results on idioms comprehension (F(۳, ۱۱۹) = ۱۸, P < .۰۰۱) and idioms production (F(۳, ۱۱۹) = ۴۱.۴۲, P < .۰۰۱) suggested significant differences among the groups and pairwise comparisons showed that the three game groups did not differ significantly from each other, although they all outperformed the control group. Overall, computerized game-based learning proved to be quite effective for enhancing idiom learning in EFL contexts. The study suggests that integrating computerized gamified activities into EFL instruction can provide a more engaging and effective environment for teaching idiomatic expressions.

کلیدواژه ها:

computerized gamification ، Digital games ، GIF-based games ، idiom teaching ، interactive activities