Evaluating the Effectiveness of Gather Town on EFL Students' Reading Speed and IELTS Scores

Guanzheng Chen, Yuying Fan and Zhongyuan Liao
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Guanzheng Chen: Guangzhou Xinhua University, Dongguan, China
Yuying Fan: Guangzhou Xinhua University, Dongguan, China
Zhongyuan Liao: Hezhou University, Hezhou, China

International Journal of Mobile and Blended Learning (IJMBL), 2025, vol. 17, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: This study explores the effectiveness of the Gather Town reading course in enhancing English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students' reading proficiency and IELTS performance compared to traditional lecture-based instruction. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was employed, involving 240 college students randomly assigned to either the experimental group (Gather Town course) or the control group (traditional instruction). Over 10 weeks, the experimental group engaged in interactive and immersive learning activities, while the control group followed a teacher-centered approach. Results demonstrated that the Gather Town course significantly improved reading speed and IELTS scores, highlighting the benefits of immersive platforms in fostering engagement and learning outcomes. Additionally, a decision tree model effectively predicted students' learning levels, showcasing the potential of predictive modeling in educational contexts. These findings emphasize the value of integrating immersive environments and advanced analytics into EFL instruction to optimize learning experiences.

Date: 2025
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