Game-Based Learning: What it is, Why it Works, and Where it's Going. Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.
–William Butler Yeats Introduction Deconstruct the fun in any good game, and it becomes clear that what makes it enjoyable is the built-in learning process. To progress in a game is to learn; when we are actively engaged with a game, our minds are experiencing the pleasure of grappling with (and coming to understand) a new system. This is true whether the game is considered “entertainment” (e.g., World of Warcraft) or “serious” (e.g., an FAA-approved flight simulator). The implications of delivering game experiences for education and training are enormous. Because of good game design, more than 11 million subscribers spend an average of 23 hours per week immersed in World of Warcraft. What is Effective Game-based Learning, and Why Does it Work? When education or training feels dull, we are not being engaged and motivated. Game-based Learning vs. Fig. 1: Comparison of Traditional Training, Hands-on, and Game-based Learning.
A Guide to Game-Based Learning. You want students to learn.
Shall we play a game? Absolutely! But what is a game? Game: a form of play or sport, especially a competitive one played according to rules and decided by skill, strength, or luck. Is Game-Based Learning the Same as Gamification? Not exactly. Every day in my classroom, I'm using the essentials: gamification elements, reward systems, and game-based learning. Understanding Games Powerful games in the classroom often include: Multiple levels or challenges A compelling or intriguing storyline A personalized, unique experience for each learner Rewards such as unlocking certain capabilities based upon achievements Additional rewards and feedback from the teacher or classroom.
Tools to Analyze Game-Based Learning As you choose games, you'll want to mix up the games you use. Computer Games vs. Computer games are often fantasy based. A simulation might have students dissect a body online, while a computer game that teaches the same thing would be Whack a Bone. Single- vs. What is GBL (Game-Based Learning)? About ETR Community EdTechReview (ETR) is a community of and for everyone involved in education technology to connect and collaborate both online and offline to discover, learn, utilize and share about the best ways technology can improve learning, teaching, and leading in the 21st century.
EdTechReview spreads awareness on education technology and its role in 21st century education through best research and practices of using technology in education, and by facilitating events, training, professional development, and consultation in its adoption and implementation. Game-Based Learning: Redefining Engagement In eLearning - eLearning Industry.