Play to Learn – The Secrets of Gamification An issue about gamification
Play and learning are closely interconnected. From infancy, children learn through play, while the adults around them entertain them in a variety of ways. Symbolic play (pretending to…) is also very much a part of pre-school education. In fact, for toddlers, play is the natural response to their desire to adapt and understand the world around them. It is through play that they appropriate the world and concepts around them, and dare to test their limits (Nouyrigat, 2023).
Yet, as children grow, the playful aspect of learning is less and less present. It’s as if having fun can’t be tied in with school. Nevertheless, one trend is making its way back into the classroom. This trend towards gamification in classes takes advantage of game mechanisms, including video games in recent years, for educational purposes, and with students of all ages! Immediate feedback, a feeling of progress, a desire to surpass oneself, interaction with peers, objectives to be reached, accumulation of points or privileges, etc.: all of this is designed to stimulate learning, motivate, and engage students.
Classroom gaming can take many forms, from the simplest activity (a quiz game) to the most complex (turning your classroom into a role-playing game). Applications use the strategy of points and competition, whether with oneself or in a group, to ignite student interest. It is also possible to create class challenges, compile the number of positive behaviours observed, and so on.
However, “the full potential of game-based learning will only be realized once the critical role of teachers in this relatively new educational practice is properly understood and leveraged” (see p.14). Pedagogical intent must therefore always be present. That’s why, in this issue, we’ve chosen to offer you a variety of testimonials to inspire you and guide you in your teaching practices.
Not everything has to become a game, but integrating a few playful elements can sometimes make all the difference in the classroom!
Martine Rioux, Chief-Editor
@riomarti
Audrey Miller, Publisher
@millaudrey
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Role-playing in the classroom allows students to engage deeply and develop meaningful social relationships. Players create a shared story in different universes, generating interest and motivation. Whether in primary / elementary schools, role-playing can be integrated in a variety of ways.
Learn more about the pros and cons of games in education and the difference between gamification and game-based learning in this engaging article.
Discover how games can enhance learning and find 10 game hooks that you can incorporate in your classroom for a more engaging educational experience.
In this article, the author explores the different scaffolds that teachers can use during game-based learning and how these strategies can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
Specialist Yu-Kai Chou, a leader in the field of gamification, has developed a framework for gamification called Octalysis, based on eight drivers of human motivation. Here they are.
Discover how a role-playing game like Dungeons & Dragons has motivated students, sparked their creativity, and allowed them to learn while having fun in this classroom adventure!
Learn more about serious games, which are immersive simulations used in a variety of fields, including education. Their use offers a number of benefits, including developing skills while customizing learning for each student.
Educational escape rooms are an engaging way to learn and develop skills. In this article, you’ll find their benefits and suggestions for getting started.
In each issue of the magazine, we bring you a selection of Websites and applications to discover! Have a look at our winter selection.
Discover how certain design features in educational games can enhance emotions and performance in learners. Read the article to uncover the impact of visual design, music, mechanics, narrative, and incentives.
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