DESIGNING EFFECTIVE GAMIFIED EFL ACTIVITIES FOR COGNITIVE SKILL ENHANCEMENT

Abstract

The growing demand for learner-centered instruction in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education has increased interest in gamification as an effective pedagogical approach. This study investigates how well-designed gamified EFL learning activities can enhance students’ cognitive skills, particularly higher-order thinking abilities such as analysis, evaluation, and problem-solving. A mixed-methods quasi-experimental design was implemented with secondary-level EFL learners. Gamified activities were developed based on Bloom’s taxonomy and cognitive learning principles. Quantitative results from pre-test and post-test comparisons revealed a statistically significant improvement in cognitive skill performance in the experimental group, with an average increase of 24–32% compared to traditional instruction [1][2]. Qualitative findings further confirmed increased engagement, motivation, and deeper cognitive processing. The study concludes that effective gamified activity design plays a crucial role in fostering cognitive development in EFL contexts.