JEELS (Journal of English Education and Linguistics Studies)
Vol. 13 No. 2 (2026): JEELS November 2026

The effectiveness of game-based learning using Wayground on students' interest and performance in English at an Indonesian junior high school

Wiwintisari Mahis (Universitas Muhammadiyah Palopo)
Harmita Sari (Magister Pedagogi, Universitas Muhammadiyah Palopo)
Rusandi (Magister Pedagogi, Universitas Muhammadiyah Palopo)
Ming Chou Liu (National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jul 2026

Abstract

Although digital platforms and gamification are increasingly used in English language classrooms, maintaining students’ interest and performance in learning remains a challenge. Therefore, this study examines whether the use of Wayground online teaching media affects students' interest and performance in English language learning, with student feedback and ease of teaching material as mediating variables. A quantitative approach was applied using an online questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale as the research instrument. Data were collected through random practical sampling from 142 junior high school students with experience using Wayground. The data were then analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with AMOS and SPSS version 25.  The results show that the use of Wayground online teaching media has a significant positive effect on student interest (coefficient = 0.200; p < 0.01). However, the use of Wayground online teaching media does not directly affect students’ learning performance (coefficient = 0.029; non-significant). In addition, student feedback and ease of teaching materials were found to be highly significant mediating variables in the relationship between the use of Wayground online teaching media and student performance (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that effective digital English learning requires system usability, meaningful interactions, quality feedback, and relevant materials. Research on Wayground media highlights these elements as vital for future educational success.  

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jeels

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

JEELS aims to disseminate the results of research in English Education and Linguistics. The published articles are the findings of research in the field of English language education and linguistics. The scope of research includes: English language teaching and learning English language testing and ...