INTEGRATING ART THERAPY AND GAMIFICATION INTO FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING: DEVELOPING A COURSE FOR THE TOURISM SECTOR
Keywords:
tourism education, foreign language learning, art therapy, gamification, cognitive skills, professional preparednessAbstract
This study examines the effectiveness of an integrated foreign language course for tourism students that combines art therapy and gamification. Sixty first-year students at the International University of Tourism and Hospitality in Turkestan participated, with 30 in an experimental group and 30 in a control group. Pre-tests and post-tests assessed language proficiency and cognitive skills, while questionnaires and interviews measured motivation, emotional engagement, and professional preparedness. Results showed that students in the experimental group improved significantly in English proficiency, creativity, motivation, and professional readiness compared to the control group. Art therapy reduced anxiety and fostered emotional engagement, while gamified activities enhanced participation and practical application of language skills in tourism scenarios.
The study demonstrates that combining creative and gamified approaches provides an effective, engaging learning environment, helping future tourism professionals develop both language and professional competencies.
