VocaDual for Kids (Enhancing English Vocabulary for Malay-Speaking Kindergarten Children)

VocaDual is an innovative educational tool developed to enhance bilingual vocabulary acquisition among young learners, specifically targeting preschool children in Malaysia. This interactive game employs a combination of hidden animals, jumble words, and crossword puzzle games to engage students in a dual-language learning environment, incorporating both Malay and English vocabulary. By addressing common language learning challenges such as limited exposure to English and a lack of engaging resources, VocaDual provides a dynamic approach to language education. The game is designed to be customizable, catering to diverse learning needs and preferences, which promotes active engagement and better retention of vocabulary. VocaDual’s design is informed by research highlighting the importance of bilingual education in multilingual societies like Malaysia, where children often face difficulties in acquiring proficiency in a second language. Preliminary qualitative studies, including feedback from teachers and learners at Tabika Perpaduan Daerah Batu Pahat Johor Darul Takzim, demonstrate the game's effectiveness in improving vocabulary retention and motivating young learners. This tool not only enhances language skills but also encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. VocaDual has the potential for broader application across multilingual educational contexts, offering a novel solution to support language development in early childhood education.