The stigma associated with video games has been diminished severely in recent years. They offer players a chance to feel as if they’re part of a community and are a healthy recreational activity (within moderation). However, video games can even be used for educational exercises such as improving vocabulary, here’s how.
They Offer Conversational Examples Of Words
Vocabulary learning is complex, it doesn’t just involve learning the word, but how the word operates within a particular sentence structure. Just like movies, video games using give the option of having subtitles present. These subtitles are useful because as you learn different words, you learn how they fit into sentences. If you’re unsure of what a word means, you’re also able to derive the meaning from the context of the sentence. This is a lot more useful than rote memorization. If you can remember a certain conversation with an individual you’re more likely to remember what the word means.
Word – Specific Games Are Challenging
If you take a look into the app store for Android or iPhone, you’ll see myriads of games situation around wordplay. They offer short intermittent levels that are perfect for when you’re waiting for an appointment, or simply bored and trying to kill time. They are challenging and they reward you for what you already know, but more importantly they can teach you. If you’re unsuccessful completing a level, oftentimes they will inform you of what the correct answer was. In scramble games you may be scratching your head attempting to see if you know the answer. Using online unscrambler tools can be helpful in completing the game, but also in teaching you words. As long as you’re incorporating the information you’re visualizing there’s no harm. Even accidentally getting the correct word will motivate you to research its meaning, and potentially pronunciation.
They Offer Pronunciation As Well As Spelling
The awesome addition of subtitles in gaming means that you will be able to hear the proper pronunciation of words. Not only this, but the game will offer you the correct spelling. Instead of simply hearing a word and knowing what it means, you will be able to recognize it when you see it. Pronunciation may be difficult to overcome for toddlers or those learning a second language and this is an asset to these demographics. It might also shed light on the correct pronunciation for those who otherwise thought it was spelled/pronounced differently (I still haven’t learned how to pronounce worcestershire sauce properly). The detriment to this of course is, many games have incorporated accents into gameplay. These accents can add some confusion to the correct sounding of words for those learning the language.
They’re Fun
Something that increases synaptic plasticity (the brain’s ability to form new connections) is how fun an experience is. Listening to drawing lectures trying to derive, and permanently process boring information is one of the more difficult ways to expand your vocabulary. Reading a dictionary for example isn’t going to help you remember new words any better. This is certainly the case for people picking up a second or third language, or toddlers just being introduced to age appropriate games. Video games offer a form of media that creates a complex storyline, and when interactions between characters happen – you’re emotionally invested. This sort of relationship with the gaming experience creates higher levels of synaptic plasticity and will help you remember the information you’re processing.
Online Games Force Interaction
Some of the most popular games worldwide are based almost entirely online. Video games such as MMORPGs may rely heavily on player to player interactions. The more effectively you’re able to communicate with your fellow compatriots the more you will be rewarded throughout the adventure. Concepts such as being able to trade, and work cohesively with other members of the game are dependant on your ability to incorporate an extensive vocabulary. You are incentivized to learn to communicate far more effectively to progress more rapidly throughout the experience.
Video games provide conversational experiences in both the world of the game itself, but also with player to player interactions. These conversational components create a great basis for vocabulary building when considering how words should be placed in sentence structure. Word specific games are challenging and fun when you’re being rewarded for previous knowledge, and learning new words as you go along. They’re also a great way to keep up with your current vocabulary. If you’re looking to increase your arsenal of words, gaming can be a great addition to your learning toolbox.
If you enjoy games and gaming and want more NEWS from the Gaming World Click Here
You must be logged in to post a comment.