The attributes and importance of online game with language learning for college English-majored students

Abstract

This study was aimed to explore college English-majored students' perceptions toward game-based learning and their current needs and expectation of interesting online games. Questionnaire survey and in-depth interview were used as the research method. Descriptive analysis and independent t-test were employed to analyze the collected data. The findings of this study show that a new, interesting, and challenging game with multimedia effects would be more appealing and attractive to them to play. Simple, easy-to-operate, and user-friendly are the most important characteristics of an interface for consideration when playing an online game. Additionally, playing online games can help the students relax and relieve pressure, improve their concentration as well as enhance their creativity. Furthermore, the students may enhance their English vocabulary, pronunciation, expression ability through game playing. Finally, female students prefer an online game with screen captions and live and practical English dialogue practices, and male students consider that playing online games makes them get insufficient sleep and causes poor health. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.