App-Supported Vocabulary Learning for Young EFL Learners - An Analysis of the Interactive Game and Learning World Niki in Edurino

This master’s thesis aims to evaluate the implementation of app-supported vocabulary learning for young learners of English as a foreign language in the interactive game and learning world Niki in the Edurino app. For this purpose, a structuring qualitative content analysis was conducted, based on categories derived from theories of early foreign language learning, vocabulary acquisition, mobile-assisted and digital game-based language learning, as well as forms of feedback. Findings and analysis categories from previous studies were further considered in this process, which led to identifying a research void regarding studies that evaluate the quality of a specific language learning programme and focus on the previously mentioned dimensions. The findings of this study suggest that the learning world Niki implements a number of essential criteria and principles, such as using multimodal representations, embedding educational content into a coherent narrative, and focusing on oral communication. However, the analysis also identified potential challenges that may hinder vocabulary learning processes. These relate, in particular, to the learning world’s ability to support productive language use, the limited use of the Niki figurine, and the restriction to standardised feedback responses. In addition to analysing the learning world Niki, this thesis introduced a comprehensive analytical tool that may prove valuable for future studies in this research area.