The Role of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games in Extramural Second Language Learning: A Literature Review

Abstract

In recent years, digital game-based language learning has gained a considerable amount of recognition from researchers and educators alike. Emerging as one of the most popular digital game genres, massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) have been at the forefront of online gaming communities and their popularity has stretched/expanded to the pedagogical field of second language learning. While the relationship between online gaming and language acquisition is amply documented in various studies, these have mainly been in controlled and formal contexts (where player/students participate in gaming sessions observed by a teacher/researcher in a classroom setting). Therefore, this literature review particularly focuses on the lesser-studied aspect of digital gaming; namely in extramural settings of digital engagement. Published within the last six years, journal articles on this subject have been perused and five have been chosen as part of this overview which does not aim at discussing the implementation of digital games into curricula but rather at presenting the sociocultural and collaborative nature of the gaming experience. This review also draws attention to common treads within the articles and points at certain niches for improvement.

Keywords

• digital games,language learning,mmorpg

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