THE ROLE OF PLAY BASED LEARNING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD ENGLISH EDUCATION

Abstract

Play-based learning (PBL) is more and more an invaluable method of early language learning, particularly for kids in the first-time school-attending age group learning English as an additional language. This study investigates the effectiveness of PBL in developing the English language skills of kids in the age group 6-8 at the initial years of primary school. Aligned with constructivist theory, this quasi-experimental 4-week experiment involved 30 students. The results showed that children in the play-based learning group showed significantly greater vocabulary, speaking, and listening gains, in addition to greater active participation when in lessons, as opposed to the control group. This study confirms the significance of the incorporation of games, stories, and involvement in English lessons in enhancing language and social skills development.