Game-based self-regulated language learning: Theoretical analysis and bibliometrics.

Gary Cheng,Xieling Chen,Haoran Xie,Ruofei Zhang

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0243827

Abstract

Game-based learning and self-regulated learning have long been valued as effective approaches to language education. However, little research has been conducted to investigate their integration, namely, game-based self-regulated language learning (GBSRLL). This study aims to conceptualise GBSRLL based on the combination of theoretical analysis, thematic evolution analysis, and social network analysis on the research articles in the fields of game-based language learning and self-regulated language learning. The results show that GBSRLL is a new interdisciplinary field emerging since the period from 2018 to 2019. Self-regulated learning strategies that can be performed in GBSRLL, the effects of GBSRLL on learners’ affective states, and the features in GBSRLL were the prominent research topics in this field. Its theoretical foundation centres on the positive correlations between learner motivation, self-efficacy, and autonomy and the implementation of game-based learning and self-regulated learning. It is feasible to conduct GBSRLL due to the strong supportiveness of game mechanics for various phases and strategies of self-regulated learning. More contributions to this new interdisciplinary field are called for, especially from the aspects of the long-term effects of GBSRLL on academic performance and the useful tools and technologies for implementing GBSRLL.

Highlights

Having long been a focus of interest in the field of educational psychology [1], self-regulated learning has been increasingly valued as an effective approach to language education [2, 3]
This study was conducted through a four-step method, including: (1) creation of datasets, in which two sets of research articles were determined for analysis, corresponding to the topics of GBLL and SRLL; (2) theoretical analysis, in which the two datasets were analysed from the theoretical aspect, addressing RQ1; (3) thematic evolution analysis, in which the emergence of interdisciplinary topics was traced respectively in the fields of SRLL and GBLL, addressing RQ2; and (4) social network analysis, in which the relations between the academic research in the fields of GBLL and SRLL were explored and visualised, addressing RQ3
This section reports the results of theoretical analysis, thematic evolution analysis, and social network analysis on the two datasets to address RQs 1, 2, and 3 subsequently

Summary

Introduction

Having long been a focus of interest in the field of educational psychology [1], self-regulated learning has been increasingly valued as an effective approach to language education [2, 3]. Along with the rapid development of technology-enhanced language learning in recent years [7], this approach has been increasingly integrated with various types of modern technology [3], such as mobile tools [5], e-portfolios [8], online editors, and wikis [9]. Compared to the aforementioned types of technology, little research has been conducted on the integration of game mechanics into SRLL, that is game-based self-regulated language learning (hereinafter, GBSRLL).

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion