DIGITAL MEDIA FOR VOCABULARY LEARNING IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS: BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22460/eltin.v14i2.p425-436Keywords:
Digital Media, Vocabulary, English Language, Elementary School, Systematic ReviewAbstract
Although numerous studies have reported positive effects of digital media on vocabulary learning, the findings remain fragmented and primarily focus on Western or higher-education contexts. Few studies have thoroughly explored both the advantages and implementation challenges of digital media for elementary EFL learners in Asia. This systematic review aims to analyze the benefits and challenges of using digital media to enhance elementary students' English vocabulary acquisition and to identify effective pedagogical strategies for implementation. Using PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this systematic review analyzed thirteen articles published between 2021 and 2026 from ERIC, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Results indicate that the primary challenges involve infrastructure limitations, including internet connectivity and device access (69.23%), as well as technical issues or system incompatibility (38.46%). Regarding benefits, 69.23% of studies reported significant improvements in vocabulary mastery, followed by increased motivation and engagement (46.15%) and enhanced long-term retention (30.77%). Game-based learning and gamification were the most prevalent pedagogical strategies (46.15%), followed by multimedia tools, including augmented reality, songs, and videos (23.08%). These findings highlight the importance of technological infrastructure, teachers’ digital literacy, and adaptive instructional strategies in supporting vocabulary learning in Asian elementary EFL classrooms.
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