Although
some teachers might be wary about using video games in the classroom,
but interactive learning-based games are rapidly becoming an integral
part of teaching our students. Video games can make learning more
efficient and flexible; and lessons more accessible and scalable.
However, educators need to realise that computer-based learning games
can never replace teachers nor reduce their importance in the
classroom. Game-based learning tools empower teachers to create an
improved learning environment and reach students better.
A
Different Approach to Video Games
Currently
learning-based games are proving to be highly effective in classrooms
around the world. But there is also a need to use these digital tools
in a more efficient manner. We need to make our students to analyse
and critically think about the deeper messages in these games. There
is a strong need to focus on the learning aspect of these games to
increase student engagement and inspire conversation.
At
present, there is negligible critical examination of game-based
learning tools in our classrooms. Our students are being taught the
value of analytically reading text books in the classrooms; but most
teachers are still neglecting video games as pointless triviality.
On
the other hand, digital games are suggestive of a change in the
manner narratives are constructed. In fact, the learning-based
computer games help to shape and develop the conscious attitudes of
kids in this modern era. We must consider the fact that these games
are reshaping storytelling for today’s children and will be
regarded as valuable classics in the coming future.
Literature
of Gaming
But
if this is true, then we should start thinking about the type of
stories we develop for our children. These games are shaping our
future generation and helping our students learn how they should
think about the surrounding world. This necessitates that we take the
help of Humanities teachers to teach our students better.
The
video game study departments need to focus on critical thinking,
apart from just computer programming and game development. We need
video game classes which evaluate the literature of gaming, instead
of classes that simply analyse the mechanics and design. Just like
film studies, now a need has evolved for video game studies.
Teachers
can begin by introducing a game into their curriculum. They can ask
the students to analyse the game and identify the underlying content.
This will help your students to gather new information, learn new
skills and broaden their perception of reality. Several games have
also been designed specifically to promote critical thinking; while
some others have been developed to provoke learners to ask questions.
Many online and free games can be found that facilitate learning and
can be assigned as homework.
Games
and Social Impact
Using
game-based learning techniques in the classroom undoubtedly helps to
create an enhanced learning experience and creates a better social
impact in the classroom. We must teach our future generation to
become ideal citizens to create a community which will be much better
than our present world. Digital games can help us to achieve this
dream by helping our children learn about the stories, images and
developments surrounding them.
Article Source: bit.ly/1t9ceUb
Article Source: bit.ly/1t9ceUb
