The Future of Education
Gamification in ESP Teaching: Developing Algerian Students’ Communication Skills
Nassima Kaid, Djillali Liabes University (Algeria)
Abstract
As English has become extremely important especially with the proliferation of multinational companies, we are witnessing a renewal of interest in learning English in Algerian universities. Yet, achieving proficiency is no easy task for ESP students. Gamification, as one of the most innovative and nascent methodologies, has become crucial in lowering students’ affective filter and developing their English proficiency. The aim of the paper is twofold: (1) provide an overview of the use of games in ESP context and (2) examine students’ attitudes towards the use of games in learning specialized vocabulary and developing their communication skills in Djillali Liabes University. Based on a quantitative method, the study gauges the attitudes of 125 Master 1 students in Accounting and Auditing towards the integration of games in their learning process. The findings revealed that the majority of students had positive attitudes and became less anxious in using English with their peers. They showed their engagement in learning and their awareness of the importance of developing their communication skills in their future careers. The paper offers insights about the importance of using games in ESP classes in Algerian universities and the different challenges related to its implementation.
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Keywords |
Gamification, Vocabulary, ESP, Students’s attitudes, Communication skills, Algeria |
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References |
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