Developing OCEAN: A Gamified Mobile-Assisted Language Learning Application for English Structure Learning among Maritime Student

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Marine Mechanical Engineering Technology, Maritime Vocational Faculty, Hangtuah University, Surabaya, Indonesia

Abstract

This study developed and preliminarily evaluated OCEAN, a gamified mobile-assisted language learning application designed to support English Structure learning among maritime students. Using a modified Four-D research and development model, the Structure component was tested with 12 Ship Machinery Engineering Technology students in three supervised sessions over approximately one week, with about 45 minutes of application use per session. Performance was measured with an English Structure test administered before and after the sessions with identical items. Perceptions were assessed with a 10-item, five-point Likert questionnaire and analyzed descriptively. Mean scores rose from 64.17 to 81.25, an increase of 17.08 points following exposure to OCEAN, t(11) = 22.99, p < .001, Cohen’s dz = 6.64. This effect size is exceptionally large and should be interpreted cautiously: the one-group design had no control group, test items were identical at both time points, and the sample was small and homogeneous. The increase therefore cannot be attributed to OCEAN alone and may partly reflect testing or practice effects. Students reported highly positive perceptions (overall mean = 4.90 out of 5.00), although the questionnaire was not psychometrically validated. These preliminary findings suggest OCEAN may serve as a supplementary tool for English Structure learning, pending confirmation through controlled larger study samples.

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Technology Assisted Language Education
Volume 4, Issue 3
September 2026
Pages 27-53

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