The Effect of Duolingo Games as Extramural English on Vocabulary Mastery

Abstract

Vocabulary mastery plays a crucial role in English language learning because it supports learners’ ability to comprehend and produce language across listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. However, many EFL students still experience difficulties in acquiring sufficient vocabulary due to limited exposure to English outside the classroom. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Duolingo games as Extramural English on students’ vocabulary mastery at the eleventh grade of Mu’allimin Boarding School Bangkinang. The study employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental design with an experimental and a control group. The participants consisted of 50 students selected through random sampling. The experimental group received vocabulary instruction through Duolingo games as Extramural English, while the control group was taught using conventional methods. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests in the form of multiple-choice vocabulary questions. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, normality and homogeneity tests, and an independent sample t-test. The findings revealed that students in the experimental group showed a significantly higher improvement in vocabulary mastery than those in the control group. The statistical analysis indicated a significant difference between the post-test scores of both groups (p < 0.05). These results demonstrate that Duolingo games as Extramural English have a significant positive effect on students’ vocabulary mastery. Therefore, integrating Duolingo games can be considered an effective and engaging strategy to enhance vocabulary learning in EFL contexts.