Game-Based Learning

http://serc.carleton.edu/introgeo/games/



his module is written to assist faculty who want to start using games to help
them teach.

• The big challenge is to make your learning objective integral to game
  play.


• Once you've done that, you can use games to:
  • Make learning fun
  
  
  • Liven up your classroom
  
  
  • Motivate your students to learn outside the classroom
  
  

What Is Game-based Learning?

Features of game-based learning (GBL):

• GBL uses competitive exercises, either pitting the students against each
  other or getting them to challenge themselves in order to motivate them to
  learn better.


• Games often have a fantasy element that engages players in a learning
  activity through a storyline.


• In order to create a truly educational game, the instructor needs to
  make sure that learning the material is essential to scoring and winning.Learn
  more here.

Categories of games that can be adapted for learning include:

• Video Games (Digital Game-Based Learning)


• Board and Card Games: with descriptions of geoscience games

Why Use Game-based Learning?

Not only does the integration of learning with gaming make science more fun;
it also:

• Motivates students to learn


• Immerses them in the material so they learn more effectively


• Encourages them to learn from their mistakes.

How to Teach with Games

To integrate learning and game play:

• Work out how to give students points for accomplishing certain goals in
  a lesson plan


• Decide on rewards for the victors


• Create game pieces


• Test your game before you run it

Learn more here.

Some important concerns include:

• What Makes a Good Game?


• Playing Fair


• Grades and Games

Geoscience Examples

• By type


• By geoscience topic

References

A bibliography of essays and articles dealing with the use of games in education.