The Use of (Language Learning) Games in Textbooks and in German Lessons in Norway

Abstract

Research confirms that using games can increase motivation and the joy of learning. This also applies to language learning. The article examines whether games are used in Norwegian foreign language teaching, more specifically in teaching German. Our article is based on a study which consists of two parts. In one part, the spotlight is on textbooks. A textbook analysis investigates whether the books offer games and if yes, what such games look like. In the second part, the teachers’ voices are invited. In an online survey, they answer whether they use games in their own teaching, where they find such games and whether they think games can be useful in language teaching. Our study shows, with one textbook as an exception, that there are hardly any games in the textbooks. But the teachers do use games in their own teaching, often taken from outside the textbook or self-made ones, and such games are preferably non-digital. The teachers would welcome more games, including digital ones, and not least some training in how games can be used in a language learning context.