Effects and core design parameters of digital game-based language learning in the mobile era: a meta-analysis and systematic review

Abstract

This meta-analysis and systematic review study of digital game-based language learning (DGBL) research describes the impact of DGBL implementation on English language learning outcomes. Criteria were set for the inclusion of appropriate research articles on digital game-based English language learning published between 2000 and 2019. Two main sources of data: Academic Search Complete (EBSCOhost) and the Web of Science were employed to search for relevant articles from peer-reviewed journals, and the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (version 3) software was used to conduct a meta-analysis. The findings identify the overall effectiveness of digital games including research designs of digital game-based learning and digital game designs, and describe the impact of DGBL on language learning outcomes. This study also provides suggestions and implications for educational practitioners and researchers who intend to conduct digital game-based learning in the mobile era.