In recent years, the use of experiential learning via hands-on techniques or games in education has gained significant attention as educators and researchers explore innovative ways to engage students thereby enhancing their learning experience. Traditional teaching methods are being supplemented or even replaced by innovative methods of teaching that leverage the power of technology to create immersive and interactive learning environments. Read this article to understand how gaming can be effectively utilised to transform the teaching-learning process, fostering student engagement, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
- Gamification: Motivating and engaging students
Integrating gaming elements into the learning process, known as gamification, can make education more enjoyable and engaging for students. By incorporating game mechanics such as challenges, rewards, levels, and leaderboards, educators can motivate students to actively participate and strive for improvement. Gamification provides immediate feedback, allowing students to track their progress and receive rewards, fostering a sense of accomplishment and encouraging continuous learning.
- Learning by doing
Games provide an immersive and experiential learning environment where students can actively participate and apply their knowledge in practical scenarios. Educational games often simulate real-life situations, allowing students to make decisions, solve problems, and face consequences in a risk-free setting. This hands-on approach promotes critical thinking, decision-making skills, and the ability to apply learned concepts in a meaningful context.
According to Ms. Maninder Kaur, a Social Science educator at Apeejay School, Model Town, teaching pattern is shifting from rote memorisation of the syllabus to experiential or hands-on learning. She says, “Students can touch, feel, and understand concepts through this form of learning. It is an excellent way to learn through experiences rather than just being lectured about the chapters. Learning by doing can enhance a child’s growth and development. For kinesthetic learners, who learn best by doing, sitting for long periods of time can make them restless. Kinesthetic learners thrive when they can participate in activities or solve problems in a hands-on manner. Education through gaming techniques aims to provide children with exciting and memorable learning experiences that go beyond the classroom and traditional teaching methods.”
- Collaboration and communication: Building social skills
Many educational games incorporate multiplayer features, encouraging students to collaborate, communicate, and work together towards a common goal. By participating in cooperative gameplay or competitive challenges, students develop teamwork and communication skills by learning how to effectively collaborate and negotiate with their peers. These social interactions foster a sense of community, creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
- Personalised learning: Tailoring education to individual needs
Gaming technology allows for adaptive learning experiences that can be customised to cater to student’s needs and learning styles. Educational games can track and analyse students’ progress, providing personalised feedback and adjusting the difficulty level accordingly. This personalised approach ensures that students receive targeted support, allowing them to learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they require additional practice or assistance.
As per Rajbir Kaur, a Computer Science educator at Apeejay School, Rama Mandi, “Technology is playing a big role in children’s lives these days. What could be better than children learning through games? Incorporating gaming into education enhances hands-on practice of classroom concepts. It fosters a sense of competition, teamwork, and communication among students. As a result, students can learn at their own pace and begin to enjoy studying in a playful manner.”
- Contextual learning: Making learning relevant
Educational games have the unique ability to contextualise abstract or complex concepts, making them more accessible and relatable to students. By presenting information in a visually appealing and interactive manner, games can help students grasp challenging concepts, understand cause-and-effect relationships, and see the real-world applications of their knowledge. This contextual learning approach enhances student engagement and promotes long-term retention of information.
- Problem solving and critical thinking: Developing essential skills
Many educational games are designed to present students with challenging problems or puzzles that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills to solve. By immersing students in dynamic and interactive problem-solving scenarios, games encourage them to think creatively, analyse information, and devise innovative solutions. These skills are transferable to various real-life situations, preparing students for the complexities of the modern world.
Innovative learning techniques in education hold immense potential to revolutionise the teaching-learning process. By leveraging the power of technology and harnessing students’ natural inclination towards gaming, educators can create engaging and interactive learning experiences that foster motivation, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, integrating educational games into the curriculum can be a game-changer, paving the way for a more effective and enjoyable learning journey for students.