Students’ Perceptions on the Effectiveness of the Taboo Game in Enhancing English Vocabulary Acquisition

Sri Dewi Lestari; Emeliya Sukma Dara Damanik

doi:10.31849/elsya.v6i2.19819

Sri Dewi Lestari Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6765-0452
Emeliya Sukma Dara Damanik Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0003-1147-2951

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31849/elsya.v6i2.19819

Keywords: Descriptive, English, Perception, Taboo Game, Vocabulary

Abstract

The integration of game-based learning methods in language education has been explored to varying extents, yet there remains a significant gap in understanding how specific games like the Taboo Game can impact English vocabulary acquisition among junior high school students. This study aims to address this gap by examining students' perceptions of using Taboo to enhance their English vocabulary. Participants included 34 junior high school students from MTs Madrisatul Ikbar during the first semester of the 2023/2024 academic year, with a subset of 12 students selected for interviews. A purposive sampling technique was employed to identify participants. The study utilized a descriptive method with a qualitative approach, collecting data through observation sheets, questionnaires, and interviews. Findings indicate that the majority of students perceived the Taboo Game positively, noting improvements in vocabulary retention, increased engagement, and reduced anxiety in learning English. Despite some differing opinions, the overall consensus highlighted the game's effectiveness and enjoyment as a learning tool. This study underscores the potential of Taboo as an engaging and effective method for enhancing English vocabulary skills in a junior high school setting.

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Author Biographies

Sri Dewi Lestari, Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia

Sri Dewi Lestari was born in Aras Panjang, Dolok Masihul, North Sumatra in 2002. She started his education from Raudhatul Mahabbah Kindergarten and continued at SDN 102062 Bangun Bandar then studied at SMPN 1 Dolok Masihul, and the next level to SMAN 1 Dolok Masihul. She is studying for a bachelor's degree in English Language Education at the State Islamic University of North Sumatra class of 2020. Currently, she is in his final semester and will complete his education in 2024. This is her first article which is about students' opinions about vocabulary learning through traditional games.

Emeliya Sukma Dara Damanik, Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia

Emeliya Sukma Dara Damanik, born in Rantauprapat in 1981. Completed her Masters in Applied Linguistics in English from Medan State University. Now a lecturer at FITK UINSU. Actively writing journals and taking part in international/national seminars. Emeliya is a dedicated English education lecturer who currently works at UINSU Medan City, Indonesia. Emeliya's passion for teaching English is not only limited to the classroom, but also aims to inspire students to appreciate the linguistic and cultural richness of the English language. In addition to her current role, Emeliya has an impressive track record in the field of teacher training. This experience allows her not only to share innovative teaching strategies and deep language knowledge with fellow educators, but also to initiate a broader impact on English education in the region. Committed to educational excellence, Emeliya continues to provide its students with strong English language proficiency while improving the quality of English language teaching in Medan through continuous professionalism.

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