GAMIFICATION IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING: CURRENT TRENDS

Abstract

The article deals with gamification as an innovative educational strategy in the process of teaching a foreign language in non-linguistic higher education institutions. The article analyzes modern concepts and methods of foreign language learning based on the principles of gamification, which will allow to modernize the foreign language course at a non-linguistic university. Theoretical foundations and practical aspects of gamification implementation, which differs from traditional game-based learning by using specific game mechanics, are analyzed. The article provides a general definition of the term “gamification” and presents general data on the use of gaming tools in non-gaming areas, where game elements are used to motivate and make tasks novel, promote the development of dialogic speech, and obtain better results. The importance of using systems of points, levels, badges, leadership boards, rewards and digital achievements to increase motivation, engage and encourage students to engage in active learning activities will be emphasized. Game elements contribute to better learning of lexical and grammatical material, development of communication skills, group cooperation, and sustained interest in the subject.