Discussion Thread: Game-Based Learning
EMY
Games are indeed an effective teaching tool on its own in part because
learning occurs within a meaningful context. According toEDUCAUSE
Review. “Games embody well-established principles and models of
learning,” What you must learn is directly related to the environment in
which you learn and demonstrate it; thus, the learning is not only relevant
but applied and practiced within that context.” (How Digital Game Based
Learning is Altering Education, 2016).
Although I have never been a gamer my sons have been involved in gaming
for most of their lives and learned numerous life lessons such as critical
thinking, and problem solving from playing computergames. Video games
are effectively teaching more than just basic skills...Games have the ability
to educate on a deeper level thatincludes subjects like math and concepts
like collaboration. For example, the game Dungeon and Dragons teaches
basic math, problem-solving and collaboration.
Gaming: An interactive teaching method that integrates gaming-based
reward systems, social interactivity, problem-solving strategies, and
challenges and competition models in a nongaming environment (Schrum &
Sumerfield, 2018 p. 65).
Game-based learning: A platform utilized to engage and facilitate student
learning in a method that mirrors student engagement outside the school
environment (Chin & Tsuei, 2014; Sanford & Madill, 2007). Teaching where
students explore the relevant aspect of games in a learning context
designed by teachers. Teachers and students collaborate in order to add
depth and perspective to the experience of playing the game (Schrum &
Sumerfield, 2018 p. 67).
Gamification: Using gaming mechanics in a nongaming context (Deterding et
al., 2011). Gamification is used in mechanisms like leaderboards, challenges,
levels, badges, and points. In the business environment rewardsare used
toengage and motivate employees. (Tulloch, 2014). Teachers have
integrated gamification practices in the classroom thus making the class
itself becomes a game. (Schrum & Sumerfield, 2018 p. 67).
There is some overlapping with the terms. “Games are digital interactions
that are fun and rewarding. Games may or may not enhance your present
level of awareness or knowledge but they can give you social motivation to
connect with people. According to Wiki games as ‘a structured form of play,
usually undertaken for enjoyment and sometimes used as an educational
tool and Game based learning (GBL) as a type of gameplay that has defined
learning outcomes. Generally, game-based learning is designed to balance
subject matter with gameplay. (J, 2018).
There are many learning theories or instructional approaches that can be
used for games. The principle foundational strategies include:behaviorist
learning theory, cognitivist learning theory,and constructivist learning
theory. Adapting video games to meet a teacher’s specific curricular
objectives can run contrary to the educational game market, which can
fetishize teacher dashboards that report personalized analytics on student
game achievement. The role of the instructor starts with getting approval
and fittinggamification into the school, training, choosing appropriate games
