Online computer games show potential not just for engaging and entertaining users, but also in promoting learning. Especially in
Turkey children spend long hours playing computer games, which are mostly in English, in internet cafés. This qualitative
research based on phenomenological theoretical framework investigates young learners’ experiences of language learning while
playing computer games in internet cafes. The data was collected through observations and semi-structured interviews and
analyzed through phenomenological data analysis steps. Implications put light into integrating computer games to ELT
curriculum.
Keywords: Internet café; computer games; language learning; young learners; entertainment education
Online computer games show potential not just for engaging and entertaining users, but also in promoting learning. Especially in Turkey children spend long hours playing computer games, which are mostly in English, in internet cafes. This qualitative research based on phenomenological theoretical framework investigates young learners' experiences of language learning while playing computer games in internet cafes. The data was collected through observations and semi-structured interviews and analyzed through phenomenological data analysis steps. Implications put light into integrating computer games to ELT curriculum. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved
