The logic of the role computer game in Russian language functioning and study

Abstract

The actuality of the article is conditioned by the significant role of game elements in language functioning and in teaching linguistic disciplines, as well as by the importance of computer technology in modern society. The purpose of the article is to compare the logic (i.e. organization, structure) of a role-playing computer game (RPG) and communicative and research activity. The results of this comparison can be used in teaching a language and in linguistic studies. The research material includes the terms from the RPG sphere, language units and rules which are used in language activities. The research methods are observation and description, realized by the means of comparison and modeling, as well as of semiotic methods. The article analyzes semantic and structural connection between RPG elements (the personage, abilities and skills of the personage, quests, resources, research and development) and elements and patterns of communicative and research activity (communicator, language abilities and skills, the purpose of communication, language means). The functional similarity between the objects being compared on the base of universal RPG semiotics and language functioning is pointed out. It is shown how RPG logic helps to perform linguistic tasks on the example of Russian grammar categories (singular and plural forms of nouns, lexical and grammatical categories of adjectives). The author presents exercises for teaching the Russian language where pupils’ activity implicitly includes RPG logic.

Keywords

• computer role-playing game
• communicative and research activity
• structure of partial semiotics
• purpose of communication
• language means
• tasks on linguistics analysis