Abstract
In recent years, Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) and gamification have gained much attention around the world. Both learning strategies are appealing because the MALL offer learners easy and convenient access to language learning, i.e. learning resources are available anywhere and anytime via mobile devices, while gamification has been demonstrated in numerous empirical studies to be beneficial in increasing learners’ motivation and engagement. However, efforts to examine gamification in Chinese as a second language (CSL) learning are still lacking, especially with regard to how CSL informal learners perceive the impact of individual game elements. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate Second Language (L2) adult learners’ perceptions of a gamified MALL application and their perceptions of five typical game elements (storyline, challenge, progress bars, rewards and leaderboard) used in a typical gamified MALL application, Duolingo. The results found that storyline and rewards acted as external motivators that contributed to participants’ learning motivation, while challenges, progress bars and competition acted as internal motivators that enhanced learners’ persistence and developed their self-directed learning ability. In addition, for Chinese learners, the storyline facilitated their understanding and mastery of Chinese characters or words. The findings enhance our understanding of L2 Chinese learning in a gamified MALL setting. We propose several recommendations for future research.
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Li, L., O’Rourke, B. (2022). Chinese Second Language Learners’ Perceptions of Gamification in an Informal Learning Environment: Duolingo as a Case Study. In: Tso, A.W.B., Chan, A.Ck., Chan, W.W.L., Sidorko, P.E., Ma, W.W.K. (eds) Digital Communication and Learning. Educational Communications and Technology Yearbook. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-8329-9_10
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