Using Genially Games for Enhancing EFL Reading and Writing Skills in Online Education

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of using Genially games for enhancing English as a foreign language (EFL) reading and writing skills. The participants were 48 students from the A2 level, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). They were enrolled in two reading and writing courses at a private university in Loja, in the south of Ecuador. The participants were organized into an experimental (n = 23) and a control group (n = 25). A mixed-method approach was used for collecting and analyzing data in this research. Pre- and post-tests were administered to all the participants; furthermore, a perceptions survey was applied to the experimental group. This study involved an online instructional process in which Genially game-based activities were implemented for practicing reading comprehension as well as paragraph and essay organization. The results showed that the use of Genially games was effective to enhance EFL reading and writing skills. An increase in the experimental group’s scores was evident for the reading skills, specifically when they had to identify main ideas, supporting details, and other elements of a reading passage. Regarding writing, they showed improvement in terms of recognizing accurate grammar and vocabulary, organizing ideas, and demonstrating awareness of essay organization. Participants also had a positive perception toward the use of game-based activities, which also increased their motivation. Further research should consider planning, game design, implementation, evaluation, and feedback.