Game-Based Learning: A Teaching Intervention Strategy to Improve the Reading Performance of Grade 3 Learners

Game-based learning is an instructional strategy that employs elements of play, such as competition, challenge, and reward, to pique learners' interest and get them involved in class activities. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the game-based reading program on the reading comprehension of Grade 3 learners in one of the small schools in the Division of Malaybalay City for the School Year 2023-2024. The study determined the level of reading performance of the learners before and after the implementation of game-based learning in terms of their vocabulary skills, word decoding skills, and reading comprehension skills. This also discovered the significant difference in the reading comprehension skills of the learners before and after the implementation of game-based learning. The study also explored the experiences of the learners in the game-based reading program. This study used the one-group pretest-posttest research design and employed the use of total enumeration sampling, utilizing the 36 Grade 3 learners. A Division Standardized Reading Comprehension Test was used. Data was analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and thematic analysis of Braun and Clarke. Results revealed that for vocabulary skills, the learners got a very satisfactory proficiency level, very satisfactory for word decoding skills, and satisfactory for reading comprehension skills. Overall, the level of reading comprehension of the learners was satisfactory after the implementation of GBL. There was a significant difference between the learners’ reading comprehension skills before and after the implementation of the game-based learning. Three main themes were identified in the study: (1) GBL as an innovative approach to learning, (2) GBL as a functional learning strategy, and (3) GBL as an engaging and authentic experience. Research has demonstrated that educational games have a notable impact on students' reading comprehension skills. Based on the findings of this study, it is evident that incorporating educational games into reading instruction can significantly enhance student reading comprehension.