Using Game as an Educational Phenomenon in Foreign Language Education of Adults (Practical Instructions)

Abstract

This review paper is dedicated to the learning game as an educational phenomenon in foreign language education of adults. Gamification becomes one of the main trends in language education not only of children but of adults as well. Game is a central subject of the author’s recent research works, including a monograph about game in foreign language education on the base of Russian language. In the article a general definition of game in language education is given. A conception regarding practical foreign language education with active use of game activities is generally presented. Using game in teaching process is active if it takes an average of 30% learning time. The author gives an explanation about relevance of this proportion. Useful practical instructions for using different game activities at elementary, intermediate and advanced levels of foreign language teaching to adults are presented. Game in the foreign language learning process is a real challenge to the intellect and emotions of adult students. Game activities stimulate not only speaking or writing skills but cognitive, creative, social and intercultural skills as well. The game is a valuable educational phenomenon which has to be actively used in foreign language education of adult students.