Digital Game-Based Learning: Foundations, Recent Studies, and Practices in Vietnam

In the rapidly advancing field of digital technology in education, the use of digital games for learning has become a prominent trend worldwide, including in Vietnam. This book chapter offers a comprehensive overview of Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL), with a particular focus on recent developments and practical implementation in the Vietnamese educational context. The first part of the chapter clarifies the foundational concepts and terminology related to DGBL, such as digital games, serious games, and educational games. It also highlights the distinct advantages of digital games in promoting engagement and adaptability in modern classrooms. The second part reviews recent DGBL-related studies conducted in Vietnam, situating them within broader international research trends. Through a comparison of key themes and findings, the chapter explores both the alignment and divergence between Vietnamese scholarship and global discourse, helping to identify gaps and emerging directions in the local academic landscape. The final part examines the practical application of DGBL in Vietnamese schools, drawing on existing teacher experiences and case examples. It discusses the challenges and opportunities in implementing DGBL in local classrooms. By bringing together conceptual, academic, and practical perspectives, the chapter concludes with critical reflections on what remains to be addressed in future research and practice to advance the effective integration of DGBL into Vietnam’s educational system.