The use of games in education has grown in popularity in recent years. GBL involves the use of games to facilitate learning in a more engaging and interactive manner. With technological advancements, game-based learning has become more popular and accessible. In this blog post, we will discuss the significance of game-based learning, its benefits, and some best practices for implementing GBL in education.
The Importance of Game-Based Learning:
The Importance of Game-Based Learning: GBL improves critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, according to the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI). It also encourages creativity, collaboration, and increases motivation and interest in learning. GBL is especially beneficial for students who struggle with traditional teaching methods because it offers a more interactive and alternative approach to learning.
Benefits of Game-Based Learning:
GBL can help students learn important life skills like persistence, resiliency, and self-control, for starters.Games are meant to be hard, and as players get better, they learn how to deal with problems andsetbacks. This helps them develop these important life skills.GBL is also a more interesting and interactive way to learn, which helps students stay motivated and on track.It also fosters a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment, which improves the learning experience.
Another advantage of GBL is that it can be personalized to meet the needs of individual students. Games can be made to fit each learner’s pace, level of understanding, and way they learn.Because GBL allows learners to work at their own pace and in their own way, it is a more effective tool for teaching complex concepts and skills. GBL also gives immediate feedback, so students can see where they need to improve and change how they do things.
Best Practices for Game-Based Learning Implementation:
To make sure that game-based learning works well in education, it is important to follow some best practices.First and foremost, the games must be aligned with the learning objectives and curriculum. The games should be designed to reinforce learning outcomes and give learners opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills.
Another good idea is to make sure that the games are right for the age and skill level of the learners.Too easy or too hard games can be discouraging and may not do what they were meant to do.
Finally, GBL must be integrated into a larger pedagogical framework. Games should be used to supplement rather than replace traditional teaching methods. Teachers should also provide learners with guidance and support throughout the game-based learning process.
Game-based learning is a valuable educational tool that provides numerous benefits to students. It improves critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities; fosters creativity and collaboration; and boosts motivation and interest in learning.
References:
https://library.educause.edu/-/media/files/library/2014/3/eli7106-pdf.pdf
