Where in the world is Carmen
Sandiego? Perhaps she took a trip on the Monopoly boardwalk and ended up in the
Oregon Trail.
For many, the above statement will trigger fond memories of games played in an educational setting. For others who are closer to the digital generation, they will not understand the reference. Regardless of whether or not you understand the reference, there is a lot that can be said in regards to playing games in an educational setting.
Competition, Engagement, Immediate Rewards, Achievement, Motivation and Assessment are all elements that define an activity as a game. All of these elements are evident in both traditional game based learning and electronic or digital game based learning.
In contrast to the traditional
games such as board, card or trivia games, the digital gaming industry is ever
growing and expanding. Digital Game
Based learning encompasses everything from virtual world game play, to apps
that utilize the mobility of the digital generation. Programs such as Rosetta
Stone have gained popularity because of their use of gaming elements. Being
able to engage and captivate the audience is a task that every large
corporation has to endure, the educational industry is no different. Teacher’s
must create lesson plans that challenge, peak the curiosity of their students
and meet the standards of their lesson.
Implementing digital games into the classroom allows teachers to meet these objectives.
What better way to engage our students that by taping into their creative and competitive sides? Below I am sharing a list of the best educational apps that can be used to
engage our students. Enjoy!30 of the best apps used in the classroom.
http://gettingsmart.com/2012/11/30-of-the-best-educational-ipad-games-kids-edition/
I loved how you introduced the topic! I played all those games growing up. I remember last year as a teacher looking for fun educational games for my students for social studies and I asked myself where is Carmen Sandiego when I need her? But I completely agree with you, students now are so into computer games and playing them why not make them do something that comes natural to them while they are learning educational content at the same time. You said it best when you said
ReplyDelete"Teacher’s must create lesson plans that challenge, peak the curiosity of their students and meet the standards of their lesson. Implementing digital games into the classroom allows teachers to meet these objectives."