The Impact of Gamification on Second Language Acquisition: Strategies, Benefits, and Challenges

Gamification has emerged as a popular and effective approach in second language acquisition, utilizing game elements and principles to enhance motivation and engagement. This review examines the strategies, benefits, and challenges of gamification in language learning. It explores how gamified platforms like Duolingo and Memrise promote active learning and persistence through points, badges, leaderboards, and storytelling. While gamification offers significant benefits, such as increased motivation and retention, challenges include ensuring educational value and integrating gamification with traditional methods. The review concludes with recommendations for future research and practice, emphasizing the need to explore long-term effects and adaptive gamification.