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Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Volume 15. Number 3, September 2024 Pp.125-141
Department of English Language, O. Zhanibekov South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University, Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
Department of Foreign language for technical specialties, M.Auezov South Kazakhstan University, Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
This study examines the impact of rewards on motivation and academic performance in digital game-based learning (DGBL) for teaching English as a foreign language to primary school students in Kazakhstan. The main objective is to evaluate how incentive systems influence student engagement and achievement, addressing a gap in the existing literature on the effectiveness of rewards in educational environments. Using a quasi-experimental design, 46 fourth-grade students were divided into a control group that received traditional instruction and an experimental group that engaged in DGBL with rewards. Data were collected through questionnaires measuring motivation and academic performance before and after the intervention. The results showed that students in the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher motivation and better educational outcomes than the control group. This study concludes that rewards can effectively enhance motivation and performance in DGBL, providing practical recommendations for educators to incorporate rewards in a balanced manner to sustain long-term engagement and learning success. Future research should explore the long-term effects of such interventions in different educational contexts.
Duisenova, M.M., & Zhorabekova, A.N. (2024). Effects of Rewards on Motivation and Student Achievement in Digital Game-Based Learning in Teaching English as a Foreign Language for Primary School Pupils in Kazakhstan. Arab World English Journal, 15(3): 125-141.
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Dr. Duisenova Marzhan Moldakassymovna is a senior lecturer at the O. Zhanibekov South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University in Kazakhstan. She has published many research papers in international, peer-reviewed journals. Her research interests focus on English language teaching, primary education, and the use of digital tools to enhance language learning.
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5684-7364
Dr. Zhorabekova Ainur Nazimbekovna is an associate professor at the M.Auezov South Kazakhstan University in Kazakhstan. She has published many research papers in international, peer-reviewed journals and a certified Cambridge CELTA holder. Her interests include foreign language acquisition, EFL teachers’ professional development, and the use of digital tools to enhance language learning. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2697-8077