Using ClassDojo to motivate kids participation in the English as Foreign Language online classes during the Covid-19 pandemic: a case study

ABSTRACT

Introduction: COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way the classes were conducted worldwide. Ecuadorian teachers were required to implement synchronously and asynchronously classes. Consequently, all the content was adapted to this new type of class. On the other hand, students have presented tiredness during classes, demotivation to learn, and unhappiness with this new modality. Studies have demonstrated the advantages of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) to motivate learners. Method: This case study aimed to investigate the efficiency of ClassDojo to motivate Ecuadorian students' participation during the English online classes. A sample of 29 sixth-graders from a private school, ranging from 9 to 11 years old, participated in this research. The data were collected during four months of classes (August to November 2020) through tests (pre and post), interview, and teacher's journal. Results: After the implementation of the app, the participants presented a significant difference between the pre-test (M=2.03, SD=1.26) and post-test (M=7.28, SD=1.69) with a p=0.00 and Cohen's d=3.52. The results gathered from the pre and post-test revealed that ClassDojo motivated students' participation in class. Results from the interview showed students' positive opinions on the use of ClassDojo. Conclusions: This app allowed participants to learn, interact, and have fun at the same time. This research is addressed to teachers who have online classes and want to increase learners' participation.