ENG: experimenting with a reacting to the past simulation game in an Estonian upper secondary EFL classroom

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to determine whether the historical simulation game series, Reacting to the Past, can be effectively implemented in an upper secondary English language learning classroom, specifically for developing learners’ speaking skills. The study follows an Action Research approach, wherein Bossetta and Giebfried’s in-development game, The Oversight Board was integrated into a four-lesson unit that was carried out with three 11th Grade English language classes in an Estonian state gymnasium. The first chapter of the study provides an overview of the benefits of a simulation-game-based approach both in foreign language learning and education in general. The second chapter describes the design of the unit around the simulation game; its implementation, data collection, and a discussion of the findings. Lastly, the thesis proposes future modifications for improving the implementation of simulation games such as The Oversight Board in upper secondary English language lessons. Keywords: English as a Foreign Language, simulation, game-based learning, Action Research, speaking skills.