Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Gazi Eğitim Fakültesi Dergisi, cilt.42, sa.1, ss.431-462, 2022 (Hakemli Dergi)
Beyond their enjoyment aspect, digital gaming has gained the attention of language educators
since gamers all around the world are often exposed to English while gaming in informal settings.
Although the exploration of such informal opportunities for language learning through digital
gaming has received some interest, the role of learner-directed informal digital gaming on
learners’ foreign language learning motivation is under-investigated. Therefore, the present study
tries to examine the foreign language learners’ digital gaming habits and reveal possible
motivational impacts of learner-directed informal digital gaming. The design of the present study
is quantitative in nature which is a cross-sectional survey study. The data collected through a
self-completion survey developed by the researchers. The participants’ gaming habits were
examined descriptively through demographic questions regarding variables including time spent
on games, game mode, and game language. Additionally, participants’ perceptions concerning
their Ideal L2 self, and Ought-to L2 self were examined. Based on the analysis, the patterns
regarding L2 selves and gaming emerged from the study, especially in terms of gaming language,
gender, and game modes. It is suggested that informal gaming may positively shape learners' L2
selves, which in turn affects their motivation