Utilizing board game in language teaching and learning with innovative approach

Although learning a new language is often associated with motivation and excitement, it also entails various challenges that may discourage learners over time. For this reason, language teachers frequently incorporate elements of fun and play into their instructional practices. Within this context, board games are considered an effective and engaging instructional tool that can enhance learner engagement. However, the adoption of board games that are originally designed for recreational purposes rather than educational objectives presents certain pedagogical limitations and implementation challenges.

In response to these challenges, the researcher developed a board game specifically designed to facilitate language practice within educational settings. The project initially emerged as a simple idea with certain potential, yet it required further development to become pedagogically effective and practically applicable. At this stage, Uppsala University Innovation played a crucial role by providing guidance, resources, and a structured development framework. Through this process, the initial concept was transformed into a market-ready educational board game known as LangCube.

This seminar aims to achieve two main objectives:

· to introduce the board game LangCube and demonstrate how it can be implemented in language classrooms;

· to highlight the role of Uppsala University Innovation in supporting academics and practitioners in developing and transforming innovative ideas into viable results.