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

TLDR

Word knowledge is crucial for second‑language acquisition, yet effective learning approaches are needed; the rapid rise of educational technology has positioned digital game‑based vocabulary learning as a promising, increasingly studied method among learners, educators, and researchers. This study reviews digital game‑based vocabulary learning research from five angles—an overview of published work, game types, theoretical frameworks, research issues, findings, and implications. The authors conducted a systematic review of 21 SSCI journal articles, selecting studies with specific criteria and analyzing them across the five identified perspectives. The review found ten dominant digital game types that generally enhance short‑term and long‑term vocabulary learning, reading and listening comprehension, motivation, engagement, reduce anxiety, and promote learner interaction, providing actionable insights for vocabulary instruction and game design.

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.