Digital Game-based Learning

Digital Game-based Learning

Digital Game-based Learning

            Digital game-based learning  is considered kind of blended learning.We use it to motivate our students to be engaged in learning. Digital game-based learning is a kind of game play that has defined learning outcomes .It balances between the content and game play .For example,if you teach present simple,you can let  your students apply on this lesson through game.Therefore,you connect the subject matter with  real world ,daily situations or experience.As a result,the content will be meaningful for them.Briefly,digital game-based learning is innovative learning approach that uses digital games for educational purposes.

         There is a difference between tradition way and game based learning.The traditional way is the way in which the teacher explains the lesson alone without any kind of interaction from students who are receiving information. In this Way, The students are passive.Teacher gives them assignment which must be done at home .The teacher is in charge of the whole process.On the other hand,students are given learning experience when they try different ways to solve problems.There are many benefits of game based learning.For example,they make decision during the game,they move on their own pace ,and they see the results of their choices. Therefore,they are highly engaged in the learning process.  

           

Gamification vs. Game-based Learning

    

        There is a difference between gamification and game based- learning. Gamification is when you use game mechanism to motivate your students to participate.It is not actually a game ,so it is  non-game context .For example,when you ask students to answer some questions ,then you promise that you will give a bounce mark to the one who will answer them all. Their rewards are in form of of badges,points or leadership points.On the other hand.Game based learning is when the teacher allows his students to play digital game using the content of the lecture.This helps students to experiences their learning.For example,you teach them past simple,you let them apply on it through digital game.The best example is Kahoot  by which you can design your digital game according to lecture.

   Elements of a Powerful Game

• The teacher has to give clear instructions to his students to avoid consuming times and students'mistakes .Therefore,the game will be well-deigned and well organised

• The game,which will be used,must include challenges and levels of difficulty,or it will be boring and the students will not be motivated.  

•  There must be rewards to motivate students to participate.For example,the teacher gives bounce marks .

• The teacher should  give instant feedback. Instant feedback is very helpful in the learning process.

        The teacher should make sure that  he uses game-based learning to serve educational purposes .No games for its own sake.If the game is not to serve the content the students learn,that means he wastes his time and causes distraction. Games should follow the rules of the traditional problem-based learning.

            First,the students look at specific situations.Second,they have to analyze problems.Then,they start gathering the resources about the problem they analyzed.  Furthermore,they start testing their thinking skills however it is  critical or creative.Finally,they present their finding.