Investigation of video game players' informal learning experiences and their influence on learning english as a foreign language

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to identify the influence of multiplayer online gaming on the acquisition of English as a foreign language. Means of items, modes, and standard deviations were analyzed and reported. The results of the survey reveal that online gaming has a significant positive influence on the use of English as most participants choose to communicate instead of remaining silent. Furthermore, a remarkable increase in listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills have been noted thanks to voice chat and text chat functions. Vocabulary acquisition also takes place through interpersonal communication among the players, who are also able to apply the new knowledge and transfer it to offline settings. Lastly, self-regulated learning, motivation, and confidence levels as well as the willingness to collaborate are positively influenced by the online gaming experiences of the learners. © 2023 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.