Digital Games for Language Learning: State of the Art, Research, and Practice

As digital gaming has increased in popularity and become a global practice, computer-assisted language learning (CALL) researchers and second and foreign language (L2) educators have begun reconsidering games as potential L2 teaching and learning (L2TL) resources. To provide an overview of this new field, this talk surveys the history and theory of games in CALL and presents the origins of the field, rationale for the use of games in L2TL, games purposed for L2TL, and major research findings. The talk then presents three useful heuristics for interpreting research on games in CALL: metaphor, research object, and research orientation. The talk concludes with implications for future research and practice, focusing on challenges and calling for cooperation and collaboration among the stakeholders in the field—CALL researchers, L2 instructors, and the L2 educational gaming industry.

This event takes place at our Stratford campus. Please register with us if you'd like transportation. The bus will leave outside Environment 2 at 3:00 p.m. and return at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Jonathon Reinhardt is Associate Professor of English Applied Linguistics at the University of Arizona. His research focuses on technology-enhanced second and foreign language pedagogy and the relationships between technological change and the epistemologies of CALL theory and practice, especially with everyday technologies like digital games, social media, and mobile apps.