Games in learning of english language as a foreign language: an exploratory study

Abstract

The confluence of means, methods and innovative strategies for the learning of the English language as a foreign language is increasingly necessary, among which are the recreational activities. Around the subject has been written an abundant updated bibliography, which results in the role assumed by the game as a dynamic component of second language learning, especially English. It was interesting in the present investigation to carry out an exploratory study, based on the identification of the main future scenarios associated with the subject. To do this, the SMIC prospective method was applied, with the participation of eight experts from several Ibero-American countries, who gave their opinion about the probability level of the different combinations of hypotheses designed. The scenario that included fulfilled hypotheses was observed as more probable, that is to say, the use of recreational activities is not frequent, it is not combined with other means and strategies, and it is not based on the interaction between teachers and students. An interdisciplinary approach is applied for its development. Other interesting results were obtained, such as the most probable hypothesis is that related to the interaction of teachers and students in the process. The analysis made allows us to identify the need to continue reinforcing the educational policies and pedagogical strategies in order to promote such an important resource in the teaching-learning of the English language as a second language.