Review of Arts and Humanities

The Impact of Playing Commercial-Off-the-Shelf Video Games on the Learner Autonomy
Bahador Sadeghi, Mohammad Taghi Hassani, Milad Abedini

Abstract
Although a considerable amount of money is spent on computer game-based language learning each year, there is very little empirical data to support the idea that computer games have any significant impact on language learning. The present study, thus, focuses on how Commercial-Off-the-Shelf video games can affect language learning and result in more autonomous learners. The impact of autonomy on proficiency is also examined to realize whether autonomous learners are more proficient in language. In this study, two groups of intermediate language learners are taught with and without implementing video games in their course. At the end of the course the level of autonomy and proficiency is measured in both groups. Analysis of the data collected indicates that students who make use of video games to learn English are more autonomous and as a result, more proficient. It is, therefore, implicated by the results of the study that Commercial-Off-the-Shelf video games have a positive impact and relationship with both autonomy and proficiency.

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