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Title: Assessing the impact of games and videos on ESL learning in Jordanian universities
Vol. 13(3), 2025, pp. 50-66
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46687/XAYE5042
Author: Samia A. Abu El-Haj
About the author: Samia A. Abu El-Haj is an experienced EFL/ESL teacher and a former FLTA scholar with 20 years of expertise in helping students improve their English proficiency as well as being a certified Trainer of trainers (TOT). She is dedicated to student-centered learning, utilizing innovative teaching methods, including games and interactive techniques, to engage learners and cater to their preferences. Her research focuses on enhancing language learning through fun, practical approaches that foster student engagement and achievement. She is currently a full-time teacher at the Languages Center at the University of Jordan.
E-mail: s.abuelhaj@ju.edu.jo
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-3879-0436
About the author: Hala Abu El Haj is a Senior Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience in the education and training of educators and parents in supporting children with special needs with their learning process. She holds a Master’s in Education, an IB certification in teaching and learning, and she is a certified Trainer of trainers (TOT). Her diverse experience across multiple settings enriches her ability to educate and empower those working with children. She currently holds the position of Enara’s Head Therapist.
E-mail: Hala.abuelhaj@cognitivebotics.com
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2077-0283
Author: Hala Khalidi
About the author: Hala Khalidi is an instructor at the University of Jordan, specializing in translation, literature, linguistics, and language instruction. She holds a Master’s in Translation and a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the same university. With over 20 years of experience, she has been a full-time instructor at the university since 2006. Hala is fluent in Arabic and English (C2 proficiency) and has published researches on topics like translation, literature, and linguistics. She co-authored University English and Communication (2010). Hala has volunteered her time to teach English courses, demonstrating her commitment to supporting students’ academic growth.
E-mail: h.khalidi@ju.edu.jo
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2077-0283
Link: http://silc.fhn-shu.com/issues/2025-3/SILC_2025_Vol_13_Issue_3_050-066_17.pdf
Citation (APA): Abu El-Haj, S. A., Abu El Haj, H., & Al-Khalidi, H. M. H. (2025). Assessing the impact of games and videos on ESL learning in Jordanian universities. Studies in Linguistics, Culture, and FLT, 13(3), 50-66. https://doi.org/10.46687/XAYE5042.
Abstract: This study investigates the effectiveness of interactive methodologies, specifically games and YouTube videos, in enhancing English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction at universities in Jordan. The research examines their impact on student engagement, motivation, and language proficiency, particularly in speaking and listening, compared to traditional methods. Data were collected from 238 undergraduate students through pre- and post-surveys, classroom observations, and a comparative analysis of mid-term and final grades. Students were divided into two groups: one received traditional instruction, while the other engaged in gamified activities and YouTube-based learning. Statistical analyses, including paired-sample t-tests, assessed changes in student attitudes, performance, and classroom challenges. Findings reveal that interactive tools significantly enhance student engagement and reduce challenges like boredom and anxiety, fostering a dynamic learning environment. However, no significant differences in exam performance were observed between the two groups. The study concludes that while interactive tools like games and videos improve engagement, their impact on academic outcomes requires further refinement. A balanced approach that combines traditional and interactive methodologies is recommended to optimize student engagement and achievement. Faculty training and gradual integration of these tools are suggested to align interactive methods with academic goals effectively.
Keywords: ESL instruction, interactive methodologies, games and YouTube videos, student engagement, language proficiency.
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