Competitive gamification and affective filter: university students' perceptions of learning English as a foreign language

This study explores the impact of digital competitive games on the perception and motivation of university students in the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom. Using a quantitative descriptive approach, a survey was administered to 147 students at the State University of Southern Manabí (UNESUM). The methodology included a preliminary pilot phase consisting of four sessions using competition-type platforms; in this case, Educaplay and Blooke were used, during which participant observation revealed high levels of engagement and a significant reduction in performance anxiety. Results indicate a highly positive perception (M=4.52), with "Active Participation" (M=4.65) being the highest-rated dimension. It is concluded that the competitive nature and interactive versatility of this type of application or platform effectively lower the affective filter, fostering a more effective learning environment in higher education. This study is part of the research project " Fortalecimiento del nivel didáctico-pedagógico de los docentes en las instituciones educativas del cantón Jipijapa” and contributes to the University-Community Linkage project “Tareas dirigidas y apoyo psicopedagógico para fortalecer el aprendizaje de los alumnos en la Educación Básica Pública de Jipijapa, Fase III – 2025”.