Pedagogical Design Perspective of Digital Game-Based English Language Learning: An Analysis of Journal Publications From 2000 to 2021

The number of digital game-based language learning studies over the past two decades has considerably increased. Conversely, game-based pedagogy from the instructional design perspective has been discussed to a lesser extent despite the emergence of a variety of digital games in the global educational technology market. The objectives of the present study were to examine the game design elements of digital game-based language learning as a pedagogical tool for English language settings and to address the application of digital games in pedagogical settings. A scoping review was employed as the research synthesis, and the PRISMA method was utilized to manage the screening process and to code the articles. The results revealed that game design elements including game genres, game availability, and game platforms have an impact on the effectiveness of digital game-based language teaching. In addition, the implementation of digital game-based pedagogy relies upon two aspects: system design and instructional design.