Pragmatics entails
the proper use of language for communication in any context, including the
linguistic adjustments (context, expression mode, body language,
appropriateness) needed to accomplish the communication goal. Pragmatics
communication deficiencies may further lead to social dysfunction, unemployment
and problems in family relationships. Computer or paper-based techniques can be
used in the evaluation of pragmatics communication perception. Literature
review quotes a rapid popularity of computer-based techniques. The aim of this
preliminary study is to examine whether pragmatics perception using
computer-based evaluation can produce similar results to its paper-based
form. The gamified evaluation on
pragmatics perception in Greek language was applied (i) in its paper-based
form, and (ii) in its computer-based form with one-month time gap. The sample
of the study was consisted of 40 (male:20; female:20) self-selected university
students with non-communicative deficits. Data from all participants was
analyzed with SPSS (v.21). Participants’ Total Score points, Response Time and
number of Correct Responses for both procedures were compared with Mann-Whitney
and Wilcoxon non-parametric tests. The results of the study are presented in a
detailed report on variables measuring the total score points, the Correct
Responses and the Response Time (mean and standard deviation) for the
paper-based and the computer-based form of the procedure according to gender.
Comparing these two forms, statistically significant differences were noted
especially regarding the Response Time. After applying the two forms of
evaluating pragmatics perception, it was indicated that the computer-based form
has a priority over the paper-based one. This study contributes towards cost effective
innovative computer-based tools in education and healthcare at times of crisis.