Considering games in learning? Game based learning (GBL) and teaching with games is a fun and effective way to engage learners. Check out tips, techniques, and tools for using a game in teaching and how games help in learning — for game-based learning for kindergarten and up!
How To Use Game-Based Learning in the Classroom and Homeschool
What is game method of teaching?
Game teaching is using games to enhance learning and teaching. It is one of the most effective learning methods for students. Using games with learning not only helps kids have fun, but also retain information better … and they don’t even know they’re learning!
And, with games based learning, you can tailor learning to children’s interest (think: Minecraft games, Lego games, and more!).
If you’re wondering How can I make my class interesting? (at home or at traditional school), teaching with games is one of the best ways!
What is the difference between gamification and game based learning?
Gamification is generally completing a set of tasks with rewards like badges or points. Game-based learning is using a game, working through the task of the game, with the motivational goal of “winning” (or learning) and having fun with a game for learning.
What is GBL (Game-Based Learning)?
What is game based learning approach?
Game based learning builds a lesson or subject matter around games (board games, video games, or online games) to accomplish specific learning goals. The games are used to help students better retain information and even practice life skills in a fun learning environment.
Game-Based Learning Examples
Examples of learning from games include:
- Scrabble for spelling
- Monopoly Junior for math and critical thinking
- Silly Sentences for grammar and sentence structure
- Scrambled States for geography (DEFINITELY add this to your games for learning states and capitals!)
- Chess for critical and strategic thinking
- Zingo for math
- Sight Word Swat for reading
- Professor Noggin’s History of the United States for history
- Catan for a strategies game
& SO MANY OTHERS for gaming learning and teaching gaming!
► CHECK OUT ONE OF THE BEST LEARNING GAMES WE’VE EVER USED
How do you implement game based learning in the classroom?
For learning and games in your classroom (at school or at home learning):
- Determine your learning with games goals and missions. (Will it be used to learn states? Do your kids need to learn multiplication?)
- Research and select fun instructional games to meet the learning goals. (Almost any game can be a teaching game!)
- Play the games to determine the issues that may arise with students. Make a list of questions or where there may be a lack of intuitiveness in the game so you can prepare kids for their game play.
- Allow kids to play games without micromanaging, but be available for questions or if direction is needed.
- Play games with the kids and have fun!
- Ask kids for feedback of the games. If they weren’t fun or engaging, don’t be afraid to switch to another for gaming and learning. The key is to have fun and learn.
- Regularly use games and learning to reinforce goals.
DON’T MISS: 58 Best Board Games List Recommended By Parents
Game-Based Learning Benefits
Do Games help students in the classroom?
Is game based learning effective?
Gaming for learning can be an effective educational technique and fun alternative for learning in the more traditional ways. To make game based learning effective, educators need to be clear about the goals to be accomplished by the games and then match games to meet those educational goals.
Also, don’t forget about video games and online gaming systems, too!
According to one study, “When compared with more traditional instructional methods, Game-based e-learning (GbEl) promises a higher motivation of learners by presenting contents in an interactive, rule-based and competitive way.”
How a game can enhance teaching and learning?
The gaming method of teaching:
- Meets kids at their interests
- Keeps learning and teaching fresh
- Can provide self-paced learning with online and video games
- Allows students and teachers to have fun
Using the games teaching strategy is a great way to teach and learn!
What are the benefits of games in education?
Instructional games in education help students:
- Improve memory
- Develop critical thinking skills with strategy learning games
- Work on hand-eye coordination
- Develop a lifelong love of learning
- Practice teamwork and cooperation
- Use creativity
- Learn to think logically
- Hone attention skills
- Practice educational concepts in unique ways
- Understand the importance of working with peers
- Gain knowledge in an environment that’s not intimidating
- Practice positivity in a competitive environment
- Show good sportsmanship
- Associate learning with fun
►ALSO CHECK OUT: Games For Learning How To Type
Game-Based Learning Games
Using games for learning and game based learning strategies don’t need to be difficult! Just use games that practice the skills or topics you are covering. You can even make entire game based learning lesson plans or study units!
Here are some game-based learning examples to get you started…
Game-Based Learning Activities
• Practice game-based learning math with Mind Your Numbers and Even Steven’s Odd
• Have fun with games learning numbers
• Work on critical thinking with learning strategies games like Qwirkle or Out Foxed
• Learn geography with Ticket To Ride
• Practice large motor skills with Toss Across
• Work on spelling with Word Monkeys
• Use games for learning languages like games for learning Spanish
• Check this out for games learning vocabulary
• Create learning stations with different board and online games
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE GAMES IN LEARNING?
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