From Play to Proficiency: The Power of the Word Connection Game on Students’ Vocabulary Development

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58421/gehu.v4i4.817

Authors

  • Jihan Selasih S Universitas Tadulako
  • Jamiluddin Jamiluddin Universitas Tadulako
  • Afrillia Anggreni Universitas Tadulako
  • Mochtar Marhum Universitas Tadulako

Keywords:

Improving, Vocabulary Mastery, Word Connection Game, Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Currently, digital games dominate 21st-century classrooms; however, non-digital games remain valuable for promoting language learning, especially in areas with limited internet access. This study aimed to determine whether the Word Connection Game can enhance students’ vocabulary mastery. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving two randomly selected classes: X M4 as the experimental group (28 students) and X M1 as the control group (28 students). Both groups were administered pre-tests and post-tests to collect data. The findings showed that the experimental group achieved a higher average post-test score (87.61) compared to the control group (60.68). The Mann–Whitney U test indicated a statistically significant difference between the groups (Asymp. Sig. 2-tailed = 0.000 < 0.05), supporting the alternative hypothesis. These results demonstrate that the Word Connection Game is an effective and engaging non-digital approach for enhancing students’ vocabulary skills. The study highlights that traditional game-based strategies remain valuable for fostering active learning and vocabulary retention, even in the digital era.

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Published

2025-11-17

How to Cite

[1]
J. Selasih S, J. Jamiluddin, A. Anggreni, and M. Marhum, “From Play to Proficiency: The Power of the Word Connection Game on Students’ Vocabulary Development”, J.Gen.Educ.Humanit., vol. 4, no. 4, pp. 2141–2150, Nov. 2025.

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 4 (2025): November

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Articles

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