Effectiveness of Gamified Learning Modules in Arabic-English Interpreter Training

Authors

  • Ghadeer Al-Btoush

    Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan

    Issue Department, Central Bank of Jordan, Amman 11118, Jordan

  • Zakaryia Almahasees

    Translation Department, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i12.11240
Received: 24 July 2025 | Revised: 20 August 2025 | Accepted: 21 August 2025 | Published Online: 17 November 2025

Abstract

This research explores the impact of gamified learning modules on promoting engagement, vocabulary retention, and interpreting performance among undergraduate Arabic-English interpreting students at Applied Science Private University. Implemented over a semester with 20 students enrolled in a capstone interpreting course, the research used a pre- and post-test design to assess student progress before and after the introduction of gamified interventions. Interventions included vocabulary games, timed drills, role-play simulations, and leaderboard activities, all designed to simulate real-time interpreting conditions and maintain active learner engagement. Results showed marked improvement in student motivation, confidence, and classroom participation, with learners expressing more enthusiasm and less anxiety towards interpreting assignments. Posttest findings also confirmed significant gains in the retention and use of specialized terminology, especially in legal and medical fields, along with measurable improvement in fluency, reformulation ability, and time management. The learner-centered structure of the gamified modules reduced cognitive overload, encouraged collaboration, and fostered a dynamic classroom atmosphere that was appropriately balanced between challenge and support. Notably, the modules bridged the gap between theoretical instruction and practical application, offering authentic, interactive, and practice-based training that exposed students to the real-world demands of interpreting. Overall, the research concludes that gamification is an innovative pedagogical framework in interpreter training, providing authentic learning experiences, enhancing performance, and fostering continued learner engagement. The findings indicate that introducing gamified modules can revolutionize interpreter education by developing core competencies, stimulating motivation, and inducing a positive climate for long-term professional growth.

Keywords:

Gamification; Interpreter Training; Arabic-English Interpreting; Student Engagement; Language Learning Strategies

References

[1] Özkaya Marangoz, E., 2023. New Approaches in Interpreter Training: Enhancing Competence and Adaptation. International Journal of Language Academy. 11(4), 42–52. DOI: https://doi.org/10.29228/ijla.72053

[2] Tarasenko, R.O., Amelina, S.M., Semerikov, S.O., 2021. Conceptual aspects of interpreter training using modern simultaneous interpretation technologies. Available from: http://ds.knu.edu.ua/jspui/handle/123456789/4963

[3] Salemink, E., de Jong, S.R., Notebaert, L., et al., 2022. Gamification of cognitive bias modification for interpretations in anxiety increases training engagement and enjoyment. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry. 76, 101727. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbtep.2022.101727

[4] Hoballah, S., 2022. A diglossia multi-dialectal language in the courtroom: The challenges for English-Arabic legal interpreters [PhD thesis]. University of Western Sydney: Sydney, Australia.

[5] Christopoulos, A., Mystakidis, S., 2023. Gamification in education. Encyclopedia. 3(4), 1223–1243. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia3040089

[6] Kapp, K.M., 2012. The Gamification of Learning and Instruction: Game-based Methods and Strategies for Training and Education. John Wiley & Sons: San Francisco, CA, USA.

[7] Almahasees, Z., Al-Natour, M., Mahmoud, S., et al., 2024. Bridging Communication Gaps in Crisis: A Case Study of Remote Interpreting in the Middle East During the COVID-19 Pandemic. World Journal of English Language. 14(2), 462.

[8] Dichev, C., Dicheva, D., Angelova, G., et al., 2015. From gamification to gameful design and gameful experience in learning. Cybernetics and Information Technologies. 14(4), 80–100. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/cait-2014-0007

[9] Redelinghuys, Z., 2021. Gamification and simulation teaching--a system created to improve the depth of knowledge and knowledge retention of engineering students [Master's thesis]. Stellenbosch University: Stellenbosch, South Africa.

[10] Dehganzadeh, H., Dehganzadeh, H., 2020. Investigating effects of digital gamification-based language learning: A systematic review. Journal of English Language Teaching and Learning. 12(25), 53–93. DOI: https://doi.org/10.22034/elt.2020.10676

[11] Li, L., O'Rourke, B., 2022. Chinese second language learners' perceptions of gamification in an informal learning environment: Duolingo as a case study. In Digital Communication and Learning: Changes and Challenges. Springer: Singapore. pp. 183–201.

[12] Almahasees, Z., Abu-Rayyash, H., 2024. Impacts of Physiological Stress on Arab Simultaneous Interpreters. International Journal of Linguistics, Literature & Translation. 7(8). DOI: https://doi.org/10.32996/ijllt.2024.7.8.22

[13] Al Zahran, A., 2021. Structural challenges in English> Arabic simultaneous interpreting. Translation & Interpreting: The International Journal of Translation and Interpreting Research. 13(1), 51–70. Available from: https://search.informit.org/doi/10.3316/informit.784094081677105

[14] Al-Salman, S., Al-Khanji, R.I., 2002. The native language factor in simultaneous interpretation in an Arabic/English context. Meta. 47(4), 607–626. DOI: https://doi.org/10.7202/008040ar

[15] Katan, D., Taibi, M., 2021. Translating Cultures: An Introduction for Translators, Interpreters and Mediators. Routledge: London, UK.

[16] Dweik, B.S., Suleiman, M., 2013. Problems encountered in translating cultural expressions from Arabic into English. International Journal of English Linguistics. 3(5), 47. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5539/ijel.v3n5p47

[17] Lynn, S., Carroll, A., Nankervis, K., et al., 2024. A systematic review of delivery modes in school‐based adolescent social–emotional learning programs—Current perspectives and future directions. Review of Education. 12(3), e70019. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/rev3.70019

[18] Snyman, C., 2023. Exploring escape rooms as a game-based learning approach to promote student motivation [Master's thesis]. University of Pretoria: Pretoria, South Africa. Available from: https://repository.up.ac.za/items/2a6db476-e2f4-4ad9-ad0e-c008738f37a0

[19] Almelhes, S.A., 2024. Gamification for teaching the Arabic language to non-native speakers: a systematic literature review. Frontiers in Education. 9, 1371955. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2024.1371955

[20] Zhang, S., Hasim, Z., 2023. Gamification in EFL/ESL instruction: A systematic review of empirical research. Frontiers in Psychology. 13, 1030790. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1030790

[21] Almahasees, Z., Albudairi, Y., 2025. Comparative analysis of video-augmented and traditional training methods in developing interpreter skills across multilingual contexts. Research Journal in Advanced Humanities. 6(1). Available from: https://royalliteglobal.com/advanced-humanities/article/view/2073

[22] Alcaide-Martínez, M., Taillefer, L., 2022. Gamification for English language teaching: A case study in translation and interpreting. Lebende Sprachen. 67(2), 283–310. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/les-2022-1015

[23] Hussein, S.H., Almahasees, Z., Husienat, I., 2025. Breaking the language barrier: How medical interpreters are preventing misdiagnoses and medical errors in Jordan's refugee camps. Research Journal in Advanced Humanities. 6(3). DOI: https://doi.org/10.58256/d2f44c76

[24] Wang, H., 2022. Gamification of Interpreter Training: A Future Perspective. Translation Quarterly. 105, 47–63. Available from: https://scholars.hsu.edu.hk/en/publications/gamification-of-interpreter-training-a-future-perspective

[25] Almahasees, R., Almahasees, Z., 2025. Breaking language barriers in physiotherapy: Ensuring consistent English-to-Arabic translations for better patient care. Research Journal in Advanced Humanities. 6(2). Available from: https://royalliteglobal.com/advanced-humanities/article/view/2072

[26] Lafleur, L., 2024. The Effects of Interleaved Spaced Repetition and Gamification on Digital Flashcard Vocabulary Learning in Foreign Language Education [PhD dissertation]. Kyoto University: Kyoto, Japan. DOI: https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.14365.32480

[27] Halimi, F., Tryzna, M., Brunstein, A., 2024. Motivational orientation and perception of active learning instruction by pre-service language teachers. Frontiers in Psychology. 15, 1307733. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1307733

[28] Braun, V., Clarke, V., 2006. Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology. 3(2), 77–101.

[29] Tergui, S., 2024. Investigating translation students' challenges in rendering Arabic idioms and proverbs into English: insights and recommendations. AWEJ for Translation & Literary Studies. 8. Available from: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5029426

[30] Ferro, L.S., 2021. The Game Element and Mechanic (Martín et al.) framework: A structural approach for implementing game elements and mechanics into game experiences. Entertainment Computing. 36, 100375. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.entcom.2020.100375

[31] Binhomran, K., Altalhab, S., 2023. A systematic review of EFL research on the impact of reading comprehension on students' vocabulary retention, and the relation between reading and vocabulary size. International Journal of Language and Literary Studies. 5(3), 146–168. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36892/ijlls.v5i3.1395

[32] Masduki, M., 2015. Understanding discourse competence in translation. IJEE (Indonesian Journal of English Education). 2(1), 73–85.

[33] Panmei, B., Waluyo, B., 2022. The pedagogical use of gamification in English vocabulary training and learning in higher education. Education Sciences. 13(1), 24. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci13010024

[34] Bandura, A., 1997. Bandura. FrancoAngeli: Milan, Italy.

[35] Gutiérrez-Artacho, J., Olvera-Lobo, M.D., 2021. Gamification in the translation and interpreting degree: a new methodological perspective in the classroom. In Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Education and New Learning Technologies, Barcelona, Spain, 4–6 July 2016. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21125/edulearn.2016.1008

[36] Parveen, S., Ikhtiar, A., 2023. Enhancing Language Learning in the Classroom: The Impact of Gamification on Learning Experience. Pakistan Languages and Humanities Review. 7(2), 846–854.

[37] Sailer, M., Homner, L., 2020. The gamification of learning: A meta-analysis. Educational Psychology Review. 32(1), 77–112.

[38] US Translation Company, 2025. 5 Best Interpreter Software in 2025. Available from: https://ustranslation.com/blog/best-interpreter-software-apps-202/ (cited 15 May 2025 ).

Downloads

How to Cite

Al-Btoush, G., & Almahasees, Z. (2025). Effectiveness of Gamified Learning Modules in Arabic-English Interpreter Training. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(12), 1147–1158. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i12.11240