Teachings and Education: Gamification and the Classroom

Introduction

• Topic: Gamification in the classroom
• Focus: Why, where, when, and how to gamify
• Goal: Create an atmosphere of excitement

Why Should Teachers Gamify?

• Empowers Students: Abilities and efforts determine success.
• Builds Motivation: Desire to win motivates students; no one likes to lose.
• Encourages Perseverance: Students keep trying; it's fun for them.
• Engagement: Smiles and enjoyment in students.

Comparison of Key Concepts

• Games: Structured form of play aimed at entertainment and engagement.
• Game-Based Learning: Uses games to meet learning objectives; can be commercial or non-commercial games, digital or non-digital (e.g., Minecraft EDU).
• Gamification: Adding game elements into a course or classroom (badges, certificates, rewards).

Elements of Gamification

• Setting of Goals: Side goals, short-term goals, long-term goals.
• Badges: Used like in the military; signify achievements.
• Leveling Up: Students can level up as they master various standards.
• Student Standings: Present standings like a high score in video games (can be anonymous).
• Competition: Core element; integrated in all components of gamification.
• Teamwork: Development of soft skills and workplace practices.
• Character Assignments: Assign different characters/avatars to students.

Successful Classroom Examples

• Experience Points: Translate into grades; earned by completing assignments and tasks. More points = higher grades.
• Scavenger Hunts: Students compete to find answers.
• Mathematical Tournaments: Similar to March Madness.
• Khan Academy: Uses badges and stars as rewards; excellent example of gamification.
• Student Ideas: Encourage students to come up with gamification ideas.

Conclusion

• Endless possibilities for gamification in the classroom.
• Involve students in the gamification process.
• Encouragement to subscribe, like, and share.