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Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Volume 15. Number 4, December 2024 Pp.267-281
English Panel, SK Datu Pengiran Mohamad, Oya, Sarawak, Ministry of Education, Malaysia.
Department of Basic Sciences and Informatics, Karak University College,
Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt, Jordan.
Program Studi Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia
Faculty of Business and Communication, Centre of Excellence for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
University Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia
Teaching vocabulary in English as a Second Language contexts sparks ongoing debate, especially regarding whether to employ explicit methods or rely on implicit approaches like providing meanings and examples. One of the promising solution is language games, offering students a non-traditional and engaging way to apply their language skills. This study investigates the effectiveness of the Taboo Word Game as a tool in enhancing the business vocabulary of 23 private college students in Malaysia. It is significant because not only does it leverage an engaging, interactive approach to language learning, but it also encourages students to think creatively and expand their lexical range. The data were collected using Action Research via pre-post tests, students’ reflective journals, and researchers’ reflections, analyzing quantitative and qualitative findings. Results show that the Taboo Word Game significantly improves students’ vocabulary competence. Students’ reflections on the other hand, revealed several key themes, including Taboo Word Game’s positive impact on vocabulary acquisition, its promotion of collaborative learning, the enjoyment it brings to the learning process, and the development of English communication skills. The implication for vocabulary instruction, even at the college level, is clear. Incorporating games into the curriculum is an excellent way to meet student’s educational needs while also catering to their preferences. This study underscores the potential of language games like the Taboo Word Game as a valuable tool in English as a Second Language, making learning more engaging and effective.
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Aizan Yaacob is an Associate Professor at Universiti Utara Malaysia. Her areas of specialization include ELT,
Applied Linguistics, Bilingualism, Teaching English to YoungLe arners, and qualitative research. She is currently
the Editor-in-Chief for Practitioner Research. Email: aizan904@uum.edu.my
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3354-9998
Mathevan Narayanan is currently a School Teacher in SK Datu Pengiran Mohamad, Oya, Sarawak. His research i
nterests include metacognition in language learning, mobile assisted language learning, vocabulary acquisition,
critical thinking, game-based language learning and semiotics. Email: g-81515334@moe-dl.edu.my
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0288-9547
Mohammad Yousef Alsaraireh is an Assistant Professor of Applied Linguistics at Al-Balqa
Applied University, Jordan. His expertise includes English language teaching, Linguistics, and translation.
Email: moh.sarayreh@bau.edu.jo ORCID Number: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3541-4126
Yulianeta is a Professor at the Faculty of Language and Literature Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia. Her research interests include literary studies, culture, gender studies, and Indonesian for Foreign Speakers (BIPA). Email yaneta@upi.edu
ORCHID ID https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6009-3371
Haniza Md Hussin is the Principal for Noble Management Solutions. Her expertise includes party audits and consultancies in ISO 9001 Quality Management System, ISO 14001 Environmental Management System, ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety Management System, ISO37001 Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS), and other customize consultancy and training. Email: haniza.hussin@gmail.com https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8563-9332
Ina Suryani is a Associate Professor teaching English for Special Purposes and Technical Communication at the Centre of Excellence for Unmanned Ariel Vehicle, Faculty of Business and Communication, Universiti Malaysia Perlis. Her research areas are in Genre Analysis and Text Analysis. ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3193-4706