Gesture-Based Learning for Preschooler: A Case Study of Teaching English Alphabet and Body Parts Vocabulary

Abstract

English is a world recognized global language. Different methods used in teaching and learning English is widely discussed and researched in the education field. Due to the language's importance, the learning age of English is beginning at a younger age in Taiwan, some even started from toddlers. In our study, we are exploring the effects of preschoolers learning English using a gesture-based system compared to learning English using word cards. The system is designed to enhance and improve the preschooler's learning performance of the language. Our target subjects do not have basic knowledge of the language. The results of the study showed that there are no significant difference between the two learning groups. However, it was found that the participant's age and those having past experience of using gesture-based systems had shown to have significant effect on their learning performance. The limitation and future study of this study is also discussed.