Gamifying Impromptu Speech for ESL/EFL Students

This paper outlines an impromptu speech activity entitled “Dented Helmet vs. Spambot” intended as part of any introductory public speaking course. The activity is designed to overcome specific affective and cognitive challenges of ESL/EFL students, in particular Chinese learners. It is inspired by the principles of gamification (Kapp, 2012) with core gaming elements such as “freedom to fail,” “rapid feedback,” and “storytelling.” The activity...