Gamified Learning for Medical English: Using Kahoot and Quizlet to Enhance Engagement and Retention

Abstract

Teaching Medical English to medical undergraduates continues to present challenges related to maintaining learner motivation, encouraging active participation, and supporting long term retention of specialized vocabulary. This paper explores the integration of gamified learning tools, namely Kahoot and Quizlet, into Medical English courses at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City. Gamified activities were incorporated into regular classroom instruction to facilitate the learning and consolidation of medical terminology while fostering a more interactive learning environment. The study adopted a practice-based approach combined with a small scale mixed method design, drawing on questionnaire data and open ended student feedback from 60 second year medical students. The findings indicate that gamification positively influences student engagement and motivation, enhances vocabulary recall, and contributes to a more dynamic and supportive classroom atmosphere. Students also reported reduced learning anxiety and increased peer interaction. Overall, the results suggest that when used purposefully, Kahoot and Quizlet can transform medical vocabulary learning from a largely passive process into an active and meaningful experience. The study concludes that gamified learning offers an effective, low cost, and sustainable pedagogical strategy for English for Medical Purposes, with potential relevance for broader ESP contexts.

Keywords: Gamification, Medical English, Kahoot, Quizlet, engagement, retention, UMP at HCMC

DOI: 10.7176/JLLL/111-01

Publication date: April 30^th 2026