How Can Video Games Enhance Learning English as a Second Language?

Bachelor Thesis , 2016 , 46 Pages , Grade: 4.5

English Language and Literature Studies - Other

The aim of this study is to present the advantages and issues of acquiring English as a second language from video games. In the theoretical part, the motivational factors are discussed and the related Applied Linguistic concepts are connected with the two main platforms of gaming.

In order to find out how the learning process works, I conducted an interview study with three players who were willing to share their experiences. The aim of the second part was to explore the learning processes of the three players in order to discover how playing video games can enhance learning English as a second language.

Note: Although the paper attempts to indtroduce the concept of video games, the reader is assumed to have a basic knowledge about the concept of a video game.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• A Brief Introduction to the History of Video Games.
• Chapter 1: The Connection Between Second Language Acquisition and Video Games
• 1.1 Motivation and Language in Games
• 1.1.1 Game Theory
• 1.1.2 What is a Video Game?
• 1.1.3 Motivation as a Bridge
• 1.2 Second Language Acquisition in Games
• 1.3 Learning and Language Skills in a Singleplayer Context
• 1.4. Learning and Language Skills in a Multiplayer Context
• Chapter 2: Individual Experiences
• 2.1. Research Question
• 2.2. Research Method
• 2.3. Introducing the Players
• 2.4. Findings and Results

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This study aims to investigate the advantages and challenges of learning English as a second language through video games. The theoretical part examines motivational factors and connects relevant Applied Linguistic concepts with the two main gaming platforms. The study explores how video games can enhance second language acquisition by analyzing the experiences of three players through an interview study.

• The motivational aspects of video games in second language acquisition.
• The role of video games in enhancing English language skills.
• The impact of different gaming platforms on language learning.
• The learning experiences of individuals playing video games.
• The potential of video games as a supplementary tool for language learning.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

The introductory chapter provides a brief overview of the history of video games, highlighting their rapid growth and widespread popularity. It introduces the concept of video games as a potential tool for language learning. Chapter 1 delves deeper into the connection between second language acquisition and video games. It explores the motivational factors involved in gaming, discussing game theory and the role of motivation in language learning. The chapter examines how video games can be used for both single-player and multiplayer language learning experiences. Chapter 2 presents the results of an interview study conducted with three players. The study explores the learning processes of these individuals and analyzes how video games have enhanced their English language skills.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The main keywords and focus topics of this study include second language acquisition, video games, motivation, language learning, gaming platforms, single-player and multiplayer contexts, learning experiences, and the potential of video games as a supplemental language learning tool.

• College: University of Pécs (Institute of English Studies)
• Grade: 4.5
• Author: Mátyás Blénessy (Author)
• Publication Year: 2016
• Pages: 46
• Catalog Number: V339621
• ISBN (eBook): 9783668302877
• ISBN (Book): 9783668302884
• Language: English
• Tags: language, acquisition, english, game, games, video games, learning, learner, SLA, FLL, Technology, IT, linguistics