Acquiring the English Language through Web-Based Role-Playing Simulations: Informal Learning in Interactive Environments

Abstract

The rapid evolution of technology has afforded students the opportunity to explore new pedagogies for learning English as a foreign language (EFL). This study focuses on exploring and understanding how foreign language teaching can be integrated with informal learning through the use of web-based role-playing simulations. The data gathered from two survey questionnaires were analyzed to serve the research purposes. The findings indicate that students enjoyed the immersive and interactive nature of a computer simulation that allowed them to interact with native speakers, and they thought that it improved their motivation to learn English. The results also suggest that engaging EFL students in authentic social interaction provides many benefits for developing their communicative competencies and promoting their interest in foreign language learning.