Supporting participants when English is not their first language
"The benefits of using gamification included improving students’ English language skills and abilities, positively affecting students’ attitudes and emotional responses … and cultivating [their] comprehensive competence." (Zhang & Hasim 2023)
What we know
Australia is a multicultural country, and many people speak English as a second language. When someone has low English skills, it can be harder for them to connect with their new community. This can lead to isolation and poor mental health. But social activities like sport can help overcome these challenges – particularly for women, whose English skills are often lower than men.
Sport is a place where people from different backgrounds and cultures can come together for a common purpose. Participating in organised sports has many benefits that can help people settle into new communities – from building friendships to challenging gender stereotypes, supporting belonging and even recovering from trauma. However, learning a new sport can feel intimidating, especially for women and girls who may already be self-conscious about their physical abilities. If their English is also limited, they may feel embarrassed or unsure, which can stop them from joining in or staying involved.
Gamification offers a useful approach to improve English language skills and increase engagement with physical activity. Gamification turns learning into simple, enjoyable games or challenges, using elements like points, storytelling, challenges and feedback. The key is thoughtfully choosing game elements suited to your learners. This takes the stress out of learning and makes it more fun and motivating.
Insights for coaches and officials
Coaches and officials can support women and girls coming to sport with English as a second language to integrate into their new communities and learn the common language. Ways you can help are:
- Coaches – use easy games and activities in training. Try small challenges, team missions and reward systems that celebrate effort. Make training a place where it’s fine to try, make mistakes and learn. Speak simply and use clear words, along with pictures or signs to help explain. Pair up players or make small groups for challenges so everyone can help each other and feel more confident.
- Officials – Give clear, simple instructions and use gestures or signs to check everyone understands. Change how you explain things if needed to help everyone understand. Keep competitions calm and supportive so new players feel safe to ask questions. Work with coaches to make sure everyone knows the rules and what is expected, using language and signs everyone can follow.
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