Incidental Vocabulary Acquisition through mobile Game-Based learning

Abstract

Incidental Vocabulary Acquisition through mobile Game-Based learning is a study that evaluates the influence of the Duolingo app in vocabulary acquisition from private and public schools of the city of Loja. The research was conducted using an experimental methodology, so that participants were divided into experimental and control group. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were also applied in order to obtain the most reliable results; the participants were 94 students from 4th grade of elementary school, who were assigned in parallels to either the control or experimental groups. Firstly, a diagnostic vocabulary test was employed to both groups, control group followed the regular book-based lessons, and meanwhile the Duolingo app was used for experimental group. At the end of 10 lessons, both groups took a post-test. Results showed that through the use of Duolingo app, the learning and retention of vocabulary were improved. Learners exhibited a high level of individual participation in each lesson with the language application; additionally, they demonstrated to be independent learners when using Duolingo, not only in class but also outside the classroom.