Socialization and linguistic confidence development in ESL learners through MMORPGs

Abstract: Gaming is an activity that many second language students engage in during their free time, however, games are for more than just playtime. The aim of this literature study is to analyse in what way MMORPGs can have a positive impact on ESL and EFL learners' confidence in using English as well as help develop socialization skills. We found relevant empirical studies by using educational databases like ERIC. A total of 9 empirical studies were included, of which 8 focused on the topic of socialization and 6 on confidence. Multiple authors in this study claim that players engage in game-play that involves social interaction, collaboration, and autonomous learning in the MMORPG context. It was concluded throughout this study that playing MMORPGs has a positive effect on players' socialization skills as well as their confidence in using English as a second language. However, few to none of these studies presented the potential risks with MMORPGs.