Educational Games

In our presentation, our group explored the use of games in education and ways in which you can enhance education in the classroom.  Many sites offer games and resources that reinforce curriculum. There are numerous math and literacy games available and it’s really about finding the right fit your students and classroom.

Minecraft Education

Minecraft ED is one of the most exciting tools we have come across this year.  What makes this platform so great is the “Sandbox” design of the game.  It gives a lot of freedom to students as well as educators, providing them with a blank canvas for them to fill in many different ways.  What isn’t showcased in our presentation, is possibility of art within the game.  Minecraft offers some really good resources for design and artwork that could be a really great tool if teachers were able to harness it. Some of the cons of the game include students who are not as familiar with the game might feel a bit handcuffed compared to students who are veterans of the game. Though Minecraft Ed is available on IOS, Android, PC, Windows and Android, some students may not have access to the game at home, which can hold back students, or the computers may hold back students from using Minecraft to their full ability.  Some school districts may not provide Minecraft ED either, eliminating the possibility of using the platform.

Math

Online math games are such an easy and fun way to compliment and reinforce the curriculum.  They are engaging, multi-levelled, and accessible to a wide range of students.  In our video you will see several sites that offer a good starting place for some math games!  They could be used as a reward for the end of the day, or as a mini-lesson any time.

Literature

Students are naturally drawn to technology and games.  Online literacy games give students a fun opportunity to play and learn.  Online literacy games help build confidence, fluency, communication and comprehension that reinforce curriculum and lessons taught within your classroom.  Many suits offer games that are multi-levelled, multi-aged and engaging for individual learning.  Students are able to play games at levels that are match their learning level.  There are so many sites and app’s available to play games at levels that match their learning level. There are so many sites and app’s available to reinforce literacy in the classroom.  Included in the video are a few sites that are user friendly or that have been recommended by students.  These sites are kid tested and kid approved and are great for iPad time or as a way to compliment.

Educational Games for Diverse Learners

Students with diverse needs may require different elements for navigating a school curriculum or to acquire and practice skills. Online games and platforms can be great option to effectively assist these students with learning. There are many different websites that aide in teaching subjects across school curriculums, but not easily found are games specific too diverse needs. A major highlight for why online games are so great for diverse learners, is there are hundreds to choose from. This abundance of games also makes finding a good one difficult. Another way online games are beneficial for students with different learning needs, is many are accommodating to only specific skill and any grade and subject. This suits differences in a students learning levels in subjects so building or working on skills can be selected and personalized. Online educational games are also great for diverse learners because many platforms can easily be adapted by having touch screen options to help those with fine motor differences. Online education games can be flexible for time and content so the student can play for as little or as long of time that allows.

What is the relationship of your topic to teaching and learning?

Educational online games and technology platforms are effectively used to enhance learning, reinforce curriculum, and models positive forms of technology in the classroom.  The relationship between educational games and learning is powerful.  Students can be entertained by a lesson that is disguised as a game, and may be more appealing than a typical academic lesson, worksheet or homework.

What are the pros, cons, and risks?

Pros for educational games is that they are easily accessible with the use of iPads and internet.  Students like playing games to enhance their learning and will be more likely to partake in an activity that is fun and engaging.  Many of the games are adaptable based on the level of the students and don’t focus on Grade level.  Educational games create interactive learning experiences.  Many apps are available for students to use during school hours as well at home, opening up learning opportunities outside the school day.

Cons for educational games is that not everyone has access to internet or devices in their home if the ask is for these games to be extended to home use.  It can separate students based on their socioeconomic status as students who come from higher socioeconomic situations will have greater access to digital equipment and will be more competent at using them. This gap raises the idea that educational technology contributes to learning inequity.  Like any technology use, there may be unexpected software or internet issues.  While students are interactive with their learning, the majority of educational games do not promote physical interaction and therefore students sits stationary while in game play.

Risks for educational games is that it is hard to monitor the content and find games that are truly enriched with curriculum content versus fun, mindless activities.

What are some of the strategies, best practices, and tips regarding your inquiry findings?

Speak with other educators when looking for Educational Games to bring into your classrooms.  See what your district already has licenses’ for, these are often educator approved with high curriculum content.  Play games yourself and see if you feel they fit the needs of your students.

Here is our video of Educational Games that can be brought into your classroom to enhance learning and reinforce traditional lesson plans and teachings. Below I have included some links to sites that we have featured in our video presentation.

Please share any thoughts or comments with us!

We would love your feedback.