E-gamification: research trends for the development of communicative competence in English
Changes in formal education are driving teachers to adopt new methodologies and didactic approaches to improve teaching and learning. Gamification has emerged as an innovative strategy in teaching English as a foreign language, although it has generated divergent opinions. The purpose of this study is to conduct a theoretical review of gamification as a strategy for the development of communicative competence and its impact on the teaching of English as a foreign language. Through a hermeneutic approach, an exhaustive and exploratory analysis of the research literature is conducted, covering 44 national and international publications published between 2009 and 2023. The results and discussion focus on gathering data that highlight the importance of considering gamification as a valid strategy in English language teaching, highlighting the implementation of its elements, such as dynamics, components and mechanisms. The conclusions highlight the need to use gamification consciously and strategically, recognizing its ability to foster student participation and the development of communicative competence in linguistic and social aspects. In addition, its close relationship with motivation and collaborative work in the learning process is highlighted.