Design of an AR Language Game: A Game-Based Content Learning Approach

This presentation aims to illustrate the design ideas of a language game prototype — Mission Possible (MP). MP is a mobile augmented reality game that facilitates English language learners in developing academic language through grade-level disciplinary content (6th-8th grade science class). Theoretically grounded in a game-based content learning approach, the current iteration of MP focuses on learners’ precision of language (i.e., word and phrase) with respect to both interpretive and expressive communication modes. MP is designed to facilitate both formal classroom and informal out-of-class learning. In this game, players are secret agents at an international intelligence agency. In order to successfully complete the espionage missions that will take place in English-speaking places, they need to first LEARN and PRACTICE the target words and phrases, and then USE them to complete a series of in-game tasks designed with language learning purposes. This presentation hopes to share the current work in progress of MP with the CLS participants and elicit feedback on MP’s future iteration development. As a researcher-developed language game, MP hopes to contribute to the ongoing dialogue of how to best design, implement, and evaluate educational games, and highlights the importance of developing language games that support the alignment between game mechanics and learning tasks.