Gamification in the education of tourism specialists

Abstract

The article examines the role of gamification in foreign language learning among tourism students. The study analyzes the impact of game-based methods on students’ motivation and the development of language skills essential for future professionals. The experimental research was conducted at the International University of Tourism and Hospitality (Turkistan) with the participation of 35 first- and second-year students randomly assigned to control and experimental groups. The experimental group used gamification elements in language learning, while the control group followed traditional methods. Data collection included a learning preferences questionnaire (Fleming, 1987), as well as pre- and post-tests to assess students’ motivation and engagement before and after the experiment. All data were processed using the SPSS statistical analysis program, with additional observations and interviews conducted with participants. The findings demonstrate that gamification significantly enhanced student motivation and improved the language skills of the experimental group.