Meaghan Axel

SLM 508
Module 3
Game-Based Learning

Slide 1:
● The objective of this presentation is to introduce game-based learning and explore the
implications of it on teaching and learning.
Slide 2:
● Games have been learning tools for centuries. Kindergarten was developed in the mid-
1800s on the tenet of learning through play. Somehow schools have lost this idea, and
for many, learning has become unpleasant.
● Game-based learning combines learning and play. Games encourage active learning
and increase student engagement.
Slide 3:
● Game-based learning is not gamifying the classroom or reviewing lessons through
quizzes.
● Game-based learning looks like play. Students work towards goals and learn through
repetition, failure, and perseverance.
Slide 4:
● Learning games are designed with a specific learning goal in mind, and then designers
work backward to create the game. Students are not often aware that they are learning
when they play.
● Students should be given the freedom to explore through play, and then the opportunity
to draw connections to the curriculum.
Slide 5:
● Teachers should not intervene in the game, learning will be meaningful for students if
they work through challenges. Play should not be assessed.
● Teachers can assess learning through the debrief and students’ abilities to make
connections to the curriculum.
● Games do no replace teachers. Teachers must allow time for students to play, debrief,
and connect. Effective classroom game management will lead to successful learning
outcomes.
Slide 6: Video
Slide 7:
● Games can lead to improvements with problem solving skills, including logical-
mathematical, naturalistic, and linguistic abilities.
● Games may actually motivate students to read beyond their grade level.
Slide 8:
● Games create authentic learning experiences for students and very often students
control the pace of learning.
● Students are more engaged when they are playing,which leads to active learning.
Slide 9: Video
Slide 10:
● Educators who use game-based learning should anticipate challenges and prepare
solutions.
Slide 11:
● Effective planning and networking can prepare educators for successful game-based
learning.
Slide 12:
● Select a game that provides students with the opportunity to explore a concept that is
connected to the curriculum. For example, the card game Werewolf connects to the
Salem witch trials, Mccarthyism, or other witch hunts.
● Students can read about witch hunts prior to playing and then write about the
connections between the game and the text.
● After playing, students may be given opportunities to further research the concept.
● Play nurtures students’ natural curiosity and leads to meaningful learning.
Slide 13: Video
Slide 14:
● The following AASL Standards are supported through game-based learning. Students
will evaluate a variety of perspectives through role-playing games or games that model
real-life decisions and events. Games will build upon prior knowledge from class lessons
and texts, and students will establish connections with other learners in the class by
actively participating in group discussions. Games require students to problem-solve and
post-game discussions and writing activities will allow students to reflect upon their
choices and strategies. As students play they will persist, and some games will require
students to plan and create.
Slide 15:
 ● Game-based learning opportunities increase student motivation and engagement.
Educators can use games to get students excited about learning and to draw
connections to the curriculum through authentic learning experiences and discussions.
Slide 16: Works Cited

Cahill, Gavin. “Why Game-Based Learning?” The Learning Counsel, The Learning Counsel,
2017, thelearningcounsel.com/article/why-game-based-learning.
Carmichael, Stephanie. “Games Motivate Students to Read beyond Their Grade Level -
Classcraft Blog.” Classcraft, Classcraft Studios Inc. , 3 Apr. 2017,
www.classcraft.com/blog/research/games-reading-literacy/.
Davis, Vicki. “Game Based Learning in Action.” EdTech Update, EdTech Update INDUSTRY
INSIGHTS YOUR PEERS ARE READING Toggle Search Panel, 7 Mar. 2018,
www.edtechupdate.com/game-based-learning/?open-article-id=7923768.
Farber, Matthew. “3 Ways to Use Game-Based Learning.” Edutopia, Edutopia, 20 Oct. 2016,
www.edutopia.org/article/3-ways-use-game-based-learning-matthew-farber.
“Game-Based Learning Brings the History of Civilization to Life.” YouTube, Edutopia, 11 Feb.
2014, youtu.be/n2EV8nLeBK4.
“Managing Game-Based Learning in the Classroom.” YouTube, Edutopia, 16 June 2015,
www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUeHyEgvtGA.
“Using Game-Based Learning in the Classroom to Develop Productive Struggle.” YouTube,
MIND Research Institute, 4 May 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WlP8NNo4CU.