The Use of Digital Games for Developing Oral Proficiency in English: A Literature Review

Abstract

This literature review aims to give the reader an overview of the research done on using digital games for developing oral proficiency. Digital games are still a new research field in general but previously conducted research on digital games and their use for language learning have shown that they may have a place in education. The material presented in the review found that digital games for the development of oral proficiency can be rationalized within the upper secondary school curriculum as well as previously established theories on learning. The studies were found to lack empirical data and proper results detailing actual development of oral proficiency and were only able to show that they may have potential as learning tools. The review concludes with a discussion surrounding the research gaps found in the field as well as reflections on how to make the best use out of digital games in a classroom setting. In conclusion, digital games show potential for the development of oral proficiency but require more research and empirical evidence.