Game-based Learning
Overview
Game-based learning is an active learning experience with clear objectives and measurable outcomes designed to be intrinsically game-like. The game is the learning experience, ideally set in a real-world context. Game-based learning often involves learning through errors along a mastery approach, which supports the development of a Learner Mindset. Research on game-based learning shows it can support Motivation, engagement, complex Problem Solving, and social emotional skills such as Self-regulation.
Use It In Your Learning Environment
Within the context of digital game-based learning, the relationship between Motivation, cognition, and Problem Solving competencies is complex. Since design features of a game can affect learners' self-efficacy and perceived competence, it is important to consider product development through the lens of learners' mental effort, cognitive load, decision-making, and other Self-regulation processes. In game-based learning, the content is learned through the process of playing a game (i.e. board game, outdoor game, or digital game). Design is thus a critical element in the potential success of game-based learning, especially if gamification elements are involved. A good example of a game-based environment is a digital breakout experience in which clues are gathered through a series of immersive learning challenges then combined to unlock or escape a final space.
Game-based learning is different from gamification. Gamification involves integrating game elements like point systems, leaderboards, badges, and other elements related to games into traditional learning activities. Research on the benefits of gamification is mixed, since persuasive technology leading to manipulation can be integrated but should be avoided especially when instructing adult learners from marginalized populations. Gamification should be utilized carefully with purpose and caution based on the unique aspects of the learners and the context to avoid overuse of extrinsic motivators. When gamification is linked to points and scores, it promotes competition, which can have negative effects on learning such as increasing Stereotype Threat, triggering Adverse Experiences, and decreasing intrinsic Motivation required to develop a Learner Mindset. Product design that allows learners to toggle competitive features off, or includes them on a page separate from the learning would best support learner variability.
To support Metacognition, system designers should consider three specific dimensions of training design. First, learner-controlled training, which allows the learners to decide when and how training proceeds and what is being trained, supports metacognitive thinking while system-controlled training usually does not. A game could incorporate a structured reflection journal to allow a learner to record learning and thinking which is more self-initiated than being prompted by the system at intermittent times. Second, when designing games that involve fantasy, it is important to understand that too much fantasy can inhibit learning and Metacognition, since it is harder to transfer in-game learning to real-world situations. However, incorporating metaphors and analogies can bridge metacognitive thinking from the fantasy world to reality. Third, incentive systems should reward effort and new strategy use rather than performance to foster a Learner Mindset.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Active Learning Strategies
Experts can answer questions and provide vocabulary, processes, feedback, and scaffolds to help learners deepen their understanding.
Case studies support authentic, active learning experiences centered around real world situations that present an account of a particular set of circumstances for learners to engage with.
When learners process and express information visually, they are activating more cognitive processes while Problem Solving.
When preparing for and executing a debate, learners analyze, form, and express verbal arguments, fostering their critical thinking skills, an essential component of Problem Solving.
Debriefing is the intentional discussion immediately following a learning experience which is especially important after simulation-based learning.
Analyzing errors is especially beneficial in helping learners develop a Learner Mindset and critical thinking skills, which are a component of Problem Solving.
Networking and supporting adult learners in expanding their social networks provide access to additional resources and Social Supports, which can impact their trajectory and Motivation.
Experiential learning is learning by doing, which may include self-directed learning activities.
Giving learners the opportunity to explain their thinking process aloud helps them to solidify their comprehension, and move knowledge into their Long-term Memory.
Inquiry-based learning is centered around open-ended questions posed by instructors and/or the learners themselves and fosters a Learner Mindset.
For adults, the Composition process can become more robust when learners can express ideas through multiple media, which includes visual, audio, and digital production.
Effective note-taking during lectures or reading directs learners' Attention to the relevant information, helping them identify key concepts, understand links between ideas and retain information better in their Long-term Memory.
The opportunity to observe peers or experts in action or participate in shadowing can provide a unique and authentic learning experience that often involves questioning, metacognitive thinking, and Problem Solving while providing Social Supports.
When learners provide constructive feedback on each other's work, they reflect on their own understanding, learn to give relevant suggestions, receive specific ways to improve, and engage in Metacognition.
Problem-based learning (PBL) is a learner-centered multidisciplinary approach focused on real world applications using active learning methods.
Simulations and immersive virtual environments provide authentic learning at a level that can spark curiosity and deeper understanding by engaging multiple senses in exploration.
Skills sprints are focused, real world learning experiences for teams in which participants learn new skills while directly designing, developing, or delivering something to their organization.
Analyzing short video clips, replays of important aspects, and videos of oneself applying what has been learned can improve Metacognition and Long-term Memory while fostering a Learner Mindset.
Analyzing and discussing solutions to problems helps students develop a deeper understanding of Problem Solving processes and Numeracy skills.
