Game Based Learning for Singapore Teenagers

Ever considered spicing up your Teenager’s way of learning with games? Wondering how to apply gaming theory but feeling a bit lost? Well, fret not! In this article, we cover awesome tips lined up to help you nail Game-Based Learning for your teenagers. Let’s turn your Learning into an engaging adventure!

Why Is Gaming So Important To The Learning Success?

Games in education aren’t exactly a novelty. One standout figure in this realm is Jean Piaget, known for his Constructivism approach. In a nutshell, Constructivism suggests that learning is an active journey where learners construct new ideas based on their existing knowledge. Past and current learning methods may have worked 10-20 years ago, but may not be as effective & stimulating for the future student.
With lowered attention spans increasing in children/teenagers, there is a urgent need to retain their focus.

Incorporating games into learning comes with several benefits, including:

1. Gain insights from errors within a secure, simulated setting. Allowing learners to make mistakes, makes them more creative & question the world more.

2. Discover alternative or superior methods for specific tasks.  Verbalise, question, iterate and optimise better quality solutions for problems. (Rather than listening to a strict teacher’s instructions and keeping quiet. Sounds familiar? )

3. Game environments typically offer heightened engagement, as each stage presents challenges that keep learners motivated. (Stimulated learners engage more with the content, rather than listening to a boring lecture.)

Gamification vs Game-Based Learning 

At Mind Theory, our mission is to inspire individuals to engage in learning, creativity, and enjoyment.

In the contemporary landscape, we’re immersed in diverse gaming concepts applicable for educational use, like Gamification and Game-Based Learning (GBL).

Gamification entails employing game mechanics and strategies outside of gaming environments to captivate users and address challenges. While commonly used in marketing, it’s increasingly embraced in educational settings.

Conversely, Game-Based Learning (GBL) focuses on imparting knowledge while players engage in gameplay. A notable instance of GBL is Cambridge ESOL’s Academy Island, where children can learn English while embarking on an adventure within the game.

How to succeed with Game-Based Learning (GBL)

Tailor game genres to educational objectives.
Evaluate various game types—resource/strategy games, discovery/adventure games, zero-sum type games—and select the most suitable for each scenario and desired learning outcomes.

Empower learning through application.
When gamers witness positive outcomes from their knowledge application, they’re more inclined to utilize it repeatedly, recognizing its real-life relevance. This fosters a habitual transfer of skills to their professional environment.

Employ effective instructional methodologies to craft the game experience.
Utilize graphics for visual comprehension, demonstrate tasks instead of listing them, and incorporate self-assessment mechanisms. Offer meaningful feedback that explains correct or incorrect responses, promoting interactivity.

Direct gamers toward clear objectives.
Like casual games, Game-Based Learning requires clear goals and rewards. Communicate scenario objectives and potential rewards through on-screen text or interactive characters to maintain engagement.

Craft immersive gameplay experiences.
Develop coherent storylines, particularly in simulated school environments, to facilitate knowledge transfer. Involving gamers in the narrative enhances engagement and fosters deeper involvement.

Strike a balance in difficulty.
Gradually increase challenges to sustain engagement without overwhelming the students. Finding the sweet spot between too easy and excessively difficult ensures continued learner engagement and supports learning outcomes.

Prioritize reliability.
Ensure the game delivers tangible knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the students’ professional roles. Focus on practical learning outcomes, providing opportunities for learners to practice and enhance future job-related skills effectively.

Of course, playing games all day long is not a solution. Read our article about Limiting Teenagers’ screen time here.