Abstract
This qualitative study examined English FAL teachers’ experiences using Kahoot! to enhance senior-phase vocabulary acquisition. The study aimed to investigate English FAL teachers’ experiences when using Kahoot! to enhance vocabulary acquisition among senior phase learners. The study involved seven participants from two schools in the OR Tambo Inland District in the Eastern Cape. The TPACK model by Mishra and Koehler (2006) was used as the lens through which the study proceedings were based. The study adopted the case study research design premised on the interpretive paradigm to ensure that the lived experiences and insights of the participants when using Kahoot! to enhance vocabulary acquisition were captured in context. Data was collected using the qualitative questionnaire and the semi-structured interview. The results were analysed using Braun and Clark’s six steps of Thematic analysis and Atlas.ti was employed to code the data into sub-themes and themes. The study found that Kahoot! was effective with other teaching strategies, leading to the holistic development of learners’ vocabulary acquisition. The findings confirmed that Kahoot! was an able tool for teaching vocabulary acquisition. Furthermore, findings revealed that Kahoot! improved learners' vocabulary acquisition and retention, important for reading comprehension and crucial for integrating into 21st-century learning experiences and excelling in other subjects.
The results indicated that Kahoot! effectively boosted motivation and engagement in vocabulary lessons. The study also found that the immediate feedback facility in Kahoot! was useful in tracking and monitoring learner performance in real-time, leading to improved vocabulary acquisition. Furthermore, the study showed that Kahoot! fostered learner confidence in independent vocabulary practice and self-directed learning. The study also revealed poor internet connection as a challenge in vocabulary acquisition activities. The findings found that the gamification attributes of Kahoot! led to unhealthy competition, which disrupted vocabulary acquisition activities. While Kahoot! aided in vocabulary acquisition, the study also found that its activities lacked the depth needed for comprehensive learning. Time constraints were to be a challenge in creating meaningful Kahoot! activities. The study concluded that Kahoot! is an effective tool for enhancing vocabulary acquisition.