Digital Games and Second Language Learning

In a recent systematic literature review, our project colleagues Emmanuel Acquah and Heidi Katz concluded that digital learning games are effective tools for language learning. Studies conducted within a formal learning environment, with or without teacher adaptation, resulted in mostly positive language acquisitions. Digital learning games (DLG) can benefit players’ language acquisition, affective / psychological states, contemporary skills and participatory behavior. Six important game features that affect the results were highlighted in particular. These are:

1. Ease of use
2. Challenge in the zone of proximal development
3. Rewards and feedback
4. Control or autonomy
5. Goal orientation
6. Interactivity

However, more research is needed on how digital learning games can best be implemented in the classroom.