| Abstract |
In Sarawak, the Foochow community is the largest sub-ethnic group,
constituting 33.5 percent of the Chinese population (Terence, 2013).
However, the use of Foochow dialect has decreased considerably, especially
among the younger generation (Ting &Roland 2002).Younger generation of
this community speak mainly Mandarin and English and are forgoing their
heritage. In view of this, FINGO Board Game is designed especially for young
children to cultivate their interest to learn Foochow dialect. The game can be
played by two to four players. Players randomly select magnetic chips from
the box and fill on the 5x5 grids. The first player selects a word and read it
aloud while other players listen and search for the word. The players have to
flip the chips to mark the word. The players are required to cover three
consecutive lines, which can be vertical, horizontal or diagonal lines. The first
player that achieves three marked lines calls out “Bingo” to win the game. The
board game is an initial attempt in encouraging the younger generation to
speak the dialect in an entertaining way. The game creates an engaging
atmosphere and provides a non-threatening, playful yet competitive
environment while children learning the dialect. Children are also able to learn
important social skills such as communicating verbally, sharing, waiting,
taking turns and enjoying interaction with others. It can foster the ability to
focus and lengthen children’s attention span by encouraging the completion of
an exciting game. It is hoped that through the game, it is able to preserve
Foochow dialect from language loss and language death. |