Tell me and I’ll forget, show me and I may remember, involve me and I’ll understand.

Confucius

The classroom has always been the thriving domain of competition in the form of essays, role-play, quizzes and games. In today’s digital classroom, this type of good-natured competition takes on different forms. Gamification is now the buzz thing. But rather than taking over, it sits comfortably alongside the more traditional forms of classroom activities.

Why gamification?

People learn best in an interactive, risk free environment where they are encouraged to apply new knowledge to real-life situations. A good digital classroom provides just that. But hey, you don’t need to be reminded of that; after all you are highly educated and experienced in the theories and processes of learning.

Perhaps you already employ gamification in your digital classroom. Perhaps you’re just dipping a tentative toe into the water, or maybe you’re unsure. We understand that digital devises can be disruptive, but to ignore their many uses would be a lost opportunity to enrich and enhance other learning. If effective gamification yields positive results, why not take advantage of it.

In case you need any more reasons to power up the devices, gamification:

• Provides simulated, real-world tasks and environments
• Offers a deeper understanding of abstract thought
• Challenges students to perform
• Encourages high levels of engagement
• Develops problem-solving skills
• Increases recall and retention
• Is fun!

There’s a great article that explores game based learning on the link below. Why not take a look at it and share your thoughts.

Game-Based Learning: What it is, Why it Works, and Where it’s Going

Jessica Trybus, Director of Edutainment, Carnegie Mellon

www.newmedia.org/game-based-learning–what-it-is-why-it-works-and-where-its-going.html

So take the plunge. Use the technology to empower yourself and empower your students. But don’t just hand over a device and hope for the best:

• Consider the function of the devices available and the different ways they can be used.
• Find content that supports the curriculum and dovetails into your program.
• Attend digital PD sessions, share with colleagues, jump on to forums and ask around.
• Get comfortable with the technology and practice with it.
• Research learning resources that will engage young minds with the topic.
• Remember not to confuse activity with success – objectives still need to be identified and achieved!
• And remember to encourage your students to charge up their devices and check out the new eQUIPD e-mag!
  We all know that digital devices can enhance student learning and engagement. With this in mind the team at Work-Ready are excited to announce the launch of eQUIPD e-mag, our online magazine especially for students. This interactive magazine is packed with information for young adults preparing for life beyond school. They’ll find informative articles, interactive quizzes, videos, case studies, CV templates, and links to handy websites.