GAMIFICATION IN ELEMENTARY ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: A CASE STUDY OF STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND TEACHER IMPLEMENTATION

EDUCATION

Gamification has become a revolutionary new approach in elementary-level English Language Teaching (ELT), offering a way to enhance students’ engagement and motivation. However, the infusion of these game-based learning approaches into the educational system is largely unexplored. This research examines the impact of gamification on student participation and language acquisition in a primary English Language Teaching (ELT) context. Based on Constructivist Learning Theory and Motivation Theory, this study examines the effects of a gamified context on student engagement, teacher time on task, and academic achievement. The study employed a qualitative case study research approach, which included interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis, involving students from Grades 3 to 5 and teachers at Paler Elementary School in Bislig City. Results show that gamification is an effective facilitator of student engagement, leading to increased motivation and improved retention of language skills, particularly in grammar. The addition of major work groups also promotes socialization and cooperation, thereby enhancing a positive classroom culture. Despite these positive results, issues faced during the implementation of gamification, including resource limitations and problems with student engagement levels, were highlighted. Teachers adjusted gamification tactics in consideration of varied learners, demonstrating a necessity to remain flexible in how instruction is structured. Theoretically, the paper contributes to the field of educational innovation by exploring how gamification can be designed for language learning in primary education. From a practical perspective, the findings provide valuable implications for ELT teachers and schools regarding difficulties and solutions to implementing gamification in the ELT classroom, as well as the importance of teacher training and resources to the fullest extent possible, highlighting the potential that it may offer.

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