The Impact of Gamification Techniques on the Understanding of French Grammar among Thai University Students Majoring in French

Abstract

Learning French grammar poses significant challenges for Thai students, as the fundamental structural differences between Thai and French often make grammar learning process complex and discouraging. This study aimed to explore how Thai university students majoring in French experience and perceive the use of gamification techniques in grammar instruction, and to examine how these strategies influence their understanding and retention of grammatical rules. A qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews involving 30 Thai students from two universities in Bangkok. The data were analyzed using content and thematic analysis methods. The findings indicate that integrating game elements into instruction can substantially enhance students’ motivation, comprehension, and confidence. Game mechanics such as scoring systems and instant feedback were found to improve understanding and recall of grammatical concepts, while game dynamics—particularly collaboration and achievement—helped reduce anxiety and fostered a more engaging learning environment. Based on these findings, teachers are encouraged to design grammar activities with balanced difficulty, emphasize authentic applications of knowledge, and monitor learners’ individual progress. Future studies may extend this investigation to different age groups or academic disciplines to explore variations in learning engagement and outcomes across contexts.