Doctoral Research Ideas

The research explores the impact of online peer feedback with gamification in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes. It addresses EFL students' perceptions of the effectiveness of online peer feedback with gamification, its influence on students' English writing performance, and its role in facilitating collective scaffolding in the writing process. The study delves into the advantages of online peer feedback over traditional methods, highlighting its potential to overcome cultural and language proficiency challenges. It also emphasizes the significance of gamification in engaging students in the drafting-feedback-revision (DFR) iterative process, which can otherwise be overwhelming. The theoretical framework draws from Hayes' writing model and Donato's (2004) collective scaffolding theory, aligning with the process-oriented approach to writing proposed by Hyland (1996). The research design involves a quasi-experimental study with pre-test and post-test-control group design conducted among first-year undergraduate EFL students to assess the effectiveness of online peer feedback with badges and leaderboards. Data collection includes writing pre-tests and post-tests, peer feedback training, and out-of-class activities using online peer feedback tools with gamification features. Data analysis encompasses descriptive statistical analysis, t-tests, and text analysis using the Systemic functional linguistics (SFL) approach to address the research questions comprehensively.

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Research Questions:

Online peer feedback activities in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes provide chances for students to exchange feedback beyond the classroom, facing minimal challenges related to cultural and language proficiency. EFL students may find DFR iterative activities overwhelming due to their longer and more effort-intensive nature, making it crucial to keep them engaged in these activities. Gamification, or game-like components, can enhance language proficiency and self-confidence in educational settings. In English as a foreign language learning, gamification can enhance language accuracy, attitudes, motivation, and confidence, addressing learning activity issues.

 

1. What is EFL students’ perception of the effectiveness of online peer feedback with gamification?

2. How does online peer feedback with gamification affect students’ English writing performance?

3. How does online peer feedback with gamification facilitate collective scaffolding in the learning of the writing process?