Ever since I became I teacher, I have been keen on finding new ways to make the learning process more enjoyable. First, when I was working face-to-face with students, I used different board games, puzzles etc. My students loved them. After Covid hit and distance learning became popular, I was worried about whether I would be able to create as engaging lessons as before. However, I learned that distance learning would take my lessons to the next level. Here is why:
First of all, games are not only for kids. Actually, games are used in different areas in education to trick our brains into learning things more quickly and effortlessly. As one student once said: "Dace, you tricked me. I thought I was playing, but I was actually learning." I couldn't have said it better.
It is not a secret that we remember things more easily, if we are having fun. In online education we can play games on our phones, on computers, and we receive instant feedback. We are not limited to textbooks and teacher's feedback in the classrom with 12 other students.
Do you know the feeling when something sounds right or wrong in your first language or in a foreign language? I have the answer to this paradox from my own perspective and experience as a language learner.
If we hear a certain phrase for a certain number of times, our brain thinks: "Okay, I have heard it enough times, it should be right." If we hear the same phrase but, let's say, the verb has a different ending, our brain starts to wonder: "Hey, I think something is wrong. For the last 100 of times I heard a different version, it doesn't sound correct to me."
So, I can say with certainty that repetition is the key. In online games, grammar rules are often reinforced through repetition and practice, rather than just doing exercises in a textbook. But don't get me wrong - doing traditional grammar tasks is also a crucial part of your learning process, however, if you combine the traditional way with interactive activities, the result is better.
In my online courses there is a wide variety of games, so you don't get bored. There are crosswords, games where you fly airplanes into the correct answers, game shows, escape rooms, and so much more.
Learn Latvian for free with these sample games from my courses. And remember - learning a language shouldn't be boring. Every game is a chance to practice, improve, and unlock new levels of confidence. Don't worry about making mistakes, that's just part of the process! The more you play, the more you grow, and the closer you get to achieving your goals.
Remember, every small win in a game is a big step in your journey. You got this! Ready, set, achieve!
