Cited by 375Educational Games and GamificationSecond Language Acquisition and LearningEFL/ESL Teaching and Learning

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Digital game-based vocabulary learning: where are we and where are we going?

Zou, Di, Huang, Yan, Xie, Haoran·2021·Computer Assisted Language Learning

DOI 10.1080/09588221.2019.1640745

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Abstract

Given the importance of word knowledge for second language acquisition, there is always a need for effective word-learning approaches from language learners. With the rapid development of educational technologies, game-based learning is emerging into a field with considerable potential, within which, digital game-based vocabulary learning has accrued increasing attention from language learners, educators and researchers. The present research reviews studies on digital game-based vocabulary learning from five perspectives: a general overview of published studies, digital games for vocabulary learning, theoretical frameworks, research issues and findings, and implications. Using specific criteria for article selection, 21 publications in SSCI journals were finalized for the systematic review. Findings revealed 10 types of digital games dominate the field, and these generally demonstrate positive effects in promoting short-term and long-term vocabulary learning, facilitating reading and listening comprehension, increasing motivation and engagement, decreasing anxiety and fostering interactions among learners. These findings further render implications that are meaningful for vocabulary learning and game design.

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Authors: Zou, D., Huang, Y., & Xie, H.
Affiliations: Education University of Hong Kong (HK)
Corresponding author: Xie, Haoran
ORCID: Zou, Di
Xie, Haoran
Venue: Computer Assisted Language Learning
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Published: 2019-07-25
Volume: 34
Issue: 5-6
Pages: 751-777
ISSN: 0958-8221 (ISSN-L)
1744-3210
DOI: 10.1080/09588221.2019.1640745
OpenAlex: W2963587667
Semantic Scholar: d36c3dfc1a93c055a01934ba4f0e99b42cbde66e
Cited by: 329
References: 62
Citations by year: 2026: 44 · 2025: 60 · 2024: 55 · 2023: 68 · 2022: 39 · 2021: 34 · 2020: 28 · 2019: 1
FWCI: 46.35
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: closed
Locations: Computer Assisted Language Learning (publishedVersion)
Topics: Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Educational Games and Gamification
Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Second Language Acquisition and Learning
Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › Language and Linguistics › EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning
Keywords: digital game-based learning, vocabulary acquisition, second language acquisition, game-based learning, game design, student motivation, student engagement, anxiety, reading comprehension, listening comprehension, vocabulary knowledge

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Digital game-based vocabulary learning: where are we and where are we going?

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