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Gamification is one of the innovative teaching approaches implemented in English classrooms nowadays. However, using gamification to enhance reading engagement and reading comprehension in language classrooms at the university level has not been much explored. This present study investigated gamification's effects on enhancing reading engagement, reading comprehension, as well as perceptions of gamification among Thai EFL university students. The participants in the research were 70 first-year students selected randomly. A mixed-methods research design was adopted to examine the effects of gamification between control and experimental groups. The quantitative results collected by the pre-test, posttest, pre-survey, and post-survey showed that the experimental group significantly improved reading comprehension and higher reading engagement after the implementation of gamification, compared to the control group that studied traditionally. Furthermore, the participants in the experimental group reported positive perceptions towards gamification, such as promoting reading engagement and creating a fun learning environment. Therefore, this study supports an alternative and innovative way to shift a reading class from a teacher-centered approach to a student-centered approach through gamification.

Accessing quality resources for English learning is an urgent pedagogical issue due to the lack of English teachers in Thailand. To compromise, it has become necessary to apply technology in English classes in the 21st century, through which students can access high-quality materials provided globally. Teachers need to tackle new challenges where the trends of technology and gamification in English language learning seem more appealing. This study explores how gamification contributes to student performance and perceptions through the "Winner English" program. The program was designed primarily to be self-paced but has been adapted to be used as a part of compulsory classes at school. The experiment group comprised Grade 9 students from eight Thai secondary schools, while the controlled group from the other eight schools studied English classes traditionally. The posttest results indicate a vast improvement to English performance by the experiment group once the program was integrated into English classes. Individual feedback underlined how the program was supported through gamification, such as the reward system and leaderboards, and offered an excellent opportunity to practice English accurately. Gamification shows promising attributes for English learners whose learning behaviors have become ubiquitous, fun-loving, and autonomous. Understanding the benefits of gamification could spark cautious optimism in English education in Thailand. [The month range (Jan-Jun) on the .pdf is incorrect. The correct range is Jul-Dec.]