Gamification in TEFL Through the Use of Wordwall.net

Gamification is a relatively new term that originated in the digital media industry (Paharia 2010). The original definition included any type of interactive computer-based game software for one or more players to use on any platform, developed with the goal of being more than just entertainment (Ritterfeld et al. 2009). In recent years, the emphasis has shifted to the concept of games as a tool for teaching and entertainment, and the definition of gamification emphasizes the use of game design elements in non-game contexts (Deterding 2011). Wordwall.net is an online software that allows teachers to create interactive games and teach any subject by using gamification. A short action research study was carried out in 2021 in two secondary school classes of students, ages 11–12, whose level of English was A1. The research question is whether the use of gamified online activities can impact students' vocabulary learning and improve the overall class environment, fostering student attention.