The objectives of this study are: (1) To explore what kind of intergroup motivation would emerge in the vocabulary knowledge from MMORPG experienced by EFL learners. (2) To explore the impacts of vocabulary knowledge from MMORPG related to the willingness to communicate using English concerning intergroup motivation. The study was conducted at one of the high schools in Surakarta. The participant of the study were three EFL learners who have played MMORPG games. This study applied the biographical narrative inquiry method and gathered the data through semi-structured interviews and artefacts.
The study explored intergroup motivation and the effect of vocabulary knowledge from massively multiplayer online role-playing games on students' willingness to communicate. EFL learners were assigned to share their experiences playing MMORPGs related to vocabulary knowledge and the desire to communicate. Thematic analysis is used to analyze the data. The findings show that intergroup motivation, shaped by social roles, cross-situational influences, affiliations, and physical proximity, significantly influences participants' engagement in English communication when playing MMORPGs. The findings also highlight the positive impact of vocabulary knowledge on participants' self- confidence and pronunciation skills. This study shows that MMORPG can effectively motivate and improve EFL learners' English communication skills.
