Mapping Narrative Game-Based Learning for Language Development: A Systematic Literature Review
Keywords:
Narrative learning; Game-based learning; Language development; Digital storytelling; Learner engagementAbstract
Narrative Game-Based Learning (NGBL) has emerged as an innovative pedagogical approach that combines storytelling, gameplay, and interactive learning to enhance language development. By embedding language tasks within immersive narratives, NGBL promotes meaningful communication, learner engagement, collaboration, and contextualised learning experiences beyond conventional teaching approaches. This study employed a combined bibliometric and Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach to examine the development and educational contributions of NGBL in language education. Bibliographic coupling analysis was conducted using 211 articles extracted from the Scopus database and analysed through VOSviewer to identify the intellectual structure of the field. Subsequently, an SLR guided by the PRISMA framework synthesised empirical studies published between 2020 and 2024. The findings identified four major bibliographic clusters and four dominant themes related to language development, motivation, experiential learning, and social interaction. Across the reviewed studies, NGBL was consistently associated with improved learner motivation, communication skills, collaboration, confidence, and contextualised language use. The findings further highlight the growing integration of immersive technologies within narrative learning environments, positioning NGBL as a transformative and learner-centred approach aligned with SDG 4: Quality Education.
https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.25.7.46
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