Marina Koutsis
Learning English as a child was not my favourite activity as I saw it as invasive and unnecessary. I did not know anyone who was anglophone and thus could not imagine how English would become useful to me. Nevertheless, my parents and the education system compelled me to learn it. As a result, I was very resistant and put little effort into my English classes. This vision changed when I started playing World of Warcraft; a multiplayer online role-playing game in English. I initially managed to get by with my limited knowledge of English, but kept wondering if there was a French version of the game that I could play instead. I had always been aware of strong English influences around Québec which I perceived as negative and contrary to my francophone roots.
However, little by little, I started learning more words and I understood that the English language was not inherently bad. Instead, learning a new language opened up so many other possibilities for me, such as being fully immersed in media, from video games to films, in their original language and being able to communicate with other players. My resistance to English had to do with external dominating forces that threatened my first language, that is French, but it did not mean that learning a language could not be inherently good. Playing a video game enhanced my understanding of language learning and improved my skills in English. The game presented me with new vocabulary that was not only game-related but also included words that could be used in everyday life. As proposed by the International Center for Language Studies (2021), video games can complement the traditional methods used in language learning whilst promoting increased engagement and motivation in learners (https://www.icls.edu/video-games-help-people-to- learn-a-new-language/). In other words, gaming is an entertaining way of practising the challenging endeavour that is language learning, which was my experience.
The following image displays a typical game Quest. The writing is usually formal and integrates both game-related and everyday vocabulary words. Usually, quest descriptions contain important information about location. This meant that I had no choice but to read these descriptions in order to complete the tasks. These helped to enhance my understanding of and my reading skills in English. It also encouraged me to look up new words, thus broadening my vocabulary.
Video games offer unique opportunities to build knowledge and to build the confidence to interact with others, thus developing language skills in a motivating and entertaining way. Playing a video game allowed for my language learning to become a positive experience, rather than something that was forced upon me in school. Instead of remaining opposed to language learning, I now value linguistic development and am proud of understanding five languages. However, I have done so without forgetting my culture and whilst still being aware of the linguistic inequalities that persist in many communities around the world. I am glad to have had the opportunity to learn English in the most motivating and entertaining way, through a game that contributed to my love for languages and I hope that other Quebeckers have the opportunity to appreciate English as I do.
Has anyone else experienced language learning in an entertaining way?
Reference
ICLS: International Center for Language Studies. (2021). Video games help people to learn a new language. ICLS. https://www.icls.edu/video-games-help-people-to-learn-a-new-language/
