Gamified Content and Language Integrated Learning Approach (CLIL): An Innovative Approach for Effective Language Teaching and Learning

Abstract

In recent times, educational approaches like Game-Based Learning (GBL) and Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) have captured the attention of many researchers. However, very little research has been done on the learning process. The main objective of this study is to investigate how learning happens in an educational design that amalgamates these two firmly established teaching approaches. This paper also studies learners’ motivation and engagement in a game-based environment. It is believed by many researchers like Ricardo Casan Pitrach (2017) and Kyriak Dourda et al. (2013) that this combination facilitates a cognitive and motivational foundation for learning since it signifies a meaningful and contextualised activity and allows learners to broaden their cognitive skills. During the last decade, the game-based learning educational approach has become well-established in the contexts of teaching and learning, capitalising on the characteristic of games to make learning more fun and effective. CLIL as a form of dual-focussed educational approach has gained popularity among teachers and researchers over the recent years. It is well-known for its integration of a non-linguistic curricular subject with a second/foreign language, providing the opportunity to teach both academic tasks and higher-order thinking skills in a safe and enriching environment. This paper aims to review the available literature and discuss the teaching potential attained from the amalgamation of GBL and CLIL. It is proved that game-based learning environments increase the effectiveness of language teaching and learning. This study concludes that with the integration of game-based learning and the Content and Language Integrated Learning Approach, teachers find an interactive model to provide more scaffolding to their learners. In addition, the use of games as a tool will significantly motivate learners to actively participate in the learning process.

Keywords: game-based learning, CLIL, teaching and learning