L2 learning outcomes of a research-based digital app for Japanese children

• Published in: Studies in second language acquisition Vol. 46; no. 2; pp. 504 - 534
• Main Authors: Bang, Hee Jin, Setoguchi, Eric, Mackey, Alison, Fujii, Akiko
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, USA Cambridge University Press 01.05.2024
• Subjects: Classrooms; Computer assisted language learning; Education; Educational Games; Educational Policy; English as a second language learning; English language; English proficiency; Games; Independent study; Japanese language; Language acquisition; Language instruction; Language proficiency; Learning outcomes; Longitudinal studies; Mobile phones; Motivation; Parent-child relations; SAT assessment; Second language learning; Secondary Education; Software; Teaching; Teaching Skills; Vocabulary development; Japan
• DOI: 10.1017/S0272263124000147
• ISSN: 0272-2631

Digital educational game-based apps can be effective in helping young children develop language skills, particularly when paired with formal instruction. However, we need to know more about how educational games benefit learning in the absence of formal instruction, given children’s proficiency with and willingness to use mobile devices anytime, anywhere. This study uses a randomized controlled trial design to investigate the impact of a digital app—ABCmouse English—on L2 learning of seven- and eight-year-old Japanese children over a 16-week period. Pre- and post-assessments of the children’s English proficiency, together with an analysis of when and how they played with the app, were used to shed light on the relationship between the children’s in-app game choices and their language learning outcomes. Surveys and interviews with parents provide qualitative insights and information about the experiences of children and their families while using the app and its impact on their development as language learners.