e-Learning Ecologies MOOC’s Updates

Learning through Games

One of the techniques we use in classrooms is by using games. We often think of games as only entertainment, but many games today are actually powerful learning tools. Games are multimodal tool as it uses different forms of communication all at the same time. We use our vision, our oral sense, even our hearing. It has different interactive elements that involves rewards and even a rich storytelling experience. When all of these are combined, they could support a diversity of learners and help make learning more natural.

One common example is Kahoot!. Instead of passively listening to a review lesson, students jump into a quiz game where they respond to colorful visuals and quick timers while getting instant feedback on how they’re doing. The excitement and friendly competition keep them interested, and the concepts stick better because their brains are active the whole time.

Here’s an article that explains how games can strengthen problem-solving and creativity in education:

https://www.jisc.ac.uk/news/five-reasons-video-games-can-help-kids-learn-03-jan-2020

For me, learning through games matter as it could easily connect with the emotional well-being of our learners. Aside from this, learning through games allow learning in different speeds, which makes learning more learner-centered and flexible.

 

Learning does not always need to feel like a test. It can be fun, engaging, flexible, and interesting, which might be one of the strongest forms of motivation of learning. And games, is one big proof of that.