Examining the Impact of EnglishXP: Cultural Quest on ESL Students’ Motivation through a Quasi-Experimental Study

Authors

  • Nur Atiqah Lewi Sultan Idris Education University image/svg+xml
  • Mohamad Lothfi Zamri
  • Fadzleen Nur Myeor
  • Adheyana Mohd Daud
  • Nur Syahidah Mohamad Faddir
  • Prema Latha Subramani

Keywords:

ESL motivation, Game-based learning, Culturally responsive teaching, Digital learning, Self-Determination Theory

Abstract

This study analyses ESL student motivation concerning EnglishXP: Cultural Quest. A quasi-experimental design was used, which included a control group, an experimental group, a pre-test, and a post-test, which involved a total of 210 students. Students completed a motivation survey that identified constructs on autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Students using the innovation had a larger gain in motivation, in general. Competence was by far the largest dimension. Findings indicate that culturally relevant, game-based elements encourage motivation. The study shows the value of interactive and culturally relevant elements in ESL teaching.

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Published

2026-05-04