Enhancing Grammatical Accuracy in EFL Students: A Game-Based Approach Utilizing Peer Response Displayed through an Interactive Application

Abstract

Mastering English grammar is a persistent challenge for students learning English as a foreign language (EFL), often caused by First Language (L1) interference. By leveraging computing technology through an interactive application called 'Grammar Clicker,' this study designed a game-based student response system (GSRS) aimed at enhancing the grammatical accuracy of EFL students. The user interfaces and gaming process of Grammar Clicker are mostly inspired by the popular game-based learning platform Kahoot!, whose key gamification elements include challenge, fantasy, and curiosity. These features leverage learning motivation and engagement of the Grammar clicker users. Another essential software application feature enabled users to practice identifying and correcting sentence-level grammatical errors, building on the proven effectiveness of the Grammar Clinic and ESL Writing Tutor. Additionally, Grammar Clicker includes a distinctive feature called 'targeting' that displays peer responses. This feature is based on indirect corrective feedback. In our focus on the technical development and implementation of Grammar Clicker, we explored participants' perceived effectiveness of our product.