The Efficacy of Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORGs) for Second Language Acquisition
Abstract: Problem-based learning (PBL) in simulated environments such as massive multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORGs) offers a variety of language-based scenarios with nonplaying characters providing model language support for cultural, vocabulary, and literacy development. Gaming provides situated learning of content in a PBL format (Brown, Collins, & Duguid, 1989). This review focuses on the use of commercial MMORGs (not specifically created for ELLs) combined with English language support material to determine whether they are an effective strategy for language learning. Games discussed include Ever Quest 2, Minecraft, The Sims, The Nori School, and World of Warcraft.
Presider: Xin Bai, York College, City Univ. of New York