Wordwall Application: Enhancing Students’ Motivation and Vocabulary Mastery at Vocational High School 1 Tungkal Jaya

Dwi Puji Rahayu; Tahrun Tahrun; Masagus Firdaus

Authors

Dwi Puji Rahayu Universitas PGRI Palembang Author
Tahrun Tahrun Universitas PGRI Palembang Author
Masagus Firdaus Universitas PGRI Palembang Author

Keywords:

Digital game-based learning, learning motivation, vocabulary Mastery, vocation education, Wordall application

Abstract

This study aims to explore how the use of the Wordwall application can enhance learning motivation and vocabulary mastery among eleventh-grade students at Vocational High School 1 Tungkal Jaya. A descriptive qualitative method was used. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with 30 students and two English teachers, and documentation of Wordwall activities. Thematic analysis yielded five main findings: (1) increased intrinsic motivation through interactive and competitive learning activities; (2) increased retention and contextual use of vocabulary; (3) the development of independent and collaborative learning strategies; (4) the importance of pedagogical design and vocational context for effective vocabulary transfer; and (5) technical barriers and limitations in teachers' digital readiness. The novelty of this study lies in its contextual focus on vocationally relevant vocabulary mastery and the development of an integrative model for designing ESP-based Wordwall activities. Practically, the results provide guidance for teachers in designing gradual and contextual gamification activities aligned with vocational competencies. Academically, this study contributes qualitative evidence regarding the motivational and cognitive mechanisms of digital game-based learning (DGBL) in the context of vocational education.

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