This quasi-experimental study investigated whether Quizizz, an online study aid, is a useful tool for enhancing English vocabulary acquisition—specifically vocabulary recognition, retention, and contextual use—among elementary students in rural areas of Taiwan. The study also examined how the delivery system influences students’ engagement. Seventy-two fourth graders participated, with 32 in the control group and 40 in the experimental group. The experimental group learned vocabulary through Quizizz, an interactive game-based platform, while the control group followed traditional methods. Data were collected via pre-tests and post-tests to measure vocabulary acquisition, and a self-assessment survey was used to assess engagement. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests to measure vocabulary acquisition, along with a self-assessment survey to evaluate student engagement. Statistical analyses included paired-sample t-tests to measure within-group improvements and ANCOVA to control for pre-test scores when comparing groups. Results showed that the experimental group achieved a 30.5% increase in vocabulary recognition and retention from pre-test to post-test, significantly higher than the control group’s 19.3% increase. The largest gains were in picture identification tasks, with a large effect size (η 2 = 0.21). Self-assessment surveys revealed that students found Quizizz engaging and motivating, citing features like instant feedback and interactive quizzes as key benefits. While improvements in contextual vocabulary use were less pronounced, findings indicate that Quizizz is a valuable tool for reinforcing vocabulary and enhancing student engagement in rural classrooms.
Liu et al. (Wed,) studied this question.