The Benefits of Game-Based Learning

Once considered strictly entertainment, games have found their place in the classroom.

The benefits of game-based learning in education are plenty: when a student wants to play, their motivation increases, making them more participatory and better able to take on challenges. Research has shown that the use of video games can transform classrooms from a traditional, listen-to-the-teacher model into a dynamic environment focused on students.

Let's take a look at the benefits of game-based learning, and see how games can make you a happier and more focused student.

Table of Contents

1. What is game-based learning?
2. Benefits of game-based learning
3. How can you incorporate game-based learning in your learning process?
4. Learning styles
5. Our approach to game-based learning

What is game-based learning?

Game-based learning - as the name suggests - is a methodology of teaching which incorporates the use of games or game elements to support learning outcomes. Learning activities may include game characteristics such as points systems, healthy competition and instant feedback when a decision is made.

Game-based learning can include online games or in-person gaming such as the use of board games. Game-based education and training through the use of digital games is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people study and work from home.

Benefits of game-based learning

When games are used for educational purposes, the students are more focused and engaged. Let’s face it: lectures haven’t always addressed all of the skills needed for on-the-job success. Classrooms have often been void of the challenges, complexities and excitement found in the real world. Game-based learning can change that.

With the ability to be personalised to suit particular topics, digital gaming or in-person gaming can be useful tools in advanced learning. Game-based learning offers immediate feedback - if a mistake is made, students can play again, learn from their mistakes, and work to improve. This makes the learner more likely to retain the lesson.

Educational games offer an interactive and attractive learning experience which promises student engagement, no matter the topic. For many people, it's much more inviting than being told by a teacher to read a textbook, or sitting through a two hour long lecture. When you play a game, mundane tasks like sorting data or working through difficult problems become fun. You're rewarded for learning.

Game-based learning encourages critical thinking, which will be useful during your studies, but also throughout your career, no matter your job.

Digital game-based learning is also attractive because it's so flexible, allowing the student to take part in the educational games when it suits them.

Other benefits of game-based learning include:

1. Fosters strategic thinking
2. Encourages collaboration, teamwork, and improved social skills
3. In the case of online gaming, it's a good way of improving digital skills
4. Improves problem-solving skills
5. Improves confidence with decision making
6. Changes the way learners think about 'failure' and builds resilience

How can you incorporate game-based learning in your learning process?

There are endless ways that game elements can be utilised and applied to learning about a whole range of topics and subject matter. Some examples are:

1. Seek out some healthy competition. Pair up with a study buddy and set goals for getting work or study complete. Each task completed gives you a point - race to see who can have the most points at the end of the month
2. Look online for digital games that offer a chance to practise your skills in a particular area
3. In the workplace, see if you can get everyone on board to participate in game-based training. Interactive games in the workplace can also encourage team building, and skills such as problem-solving. These skills are universal, and can be applied to future jobs you have, too
4. Display a fun progress board, and mark off when you complete tasks to track your progress visually
   
   

Learning styles

Most adults have a preferred way of learning. The main learning styles are considered to be:

1. Visual - learning by seeing
2. Auditory - learning by listening and verbalising
3. Kinaesthetic - learning by doing

Adults are different to children in the way we learn. Adult learners can draw on their life experience to make decisions and process new information. Another benefit of game-based learning for adults is that the educational game is highly customisable. The gaming experience can be tailored to fit how we learn.

Our approach to game-based learning

Some of the skills most desired by employees and valued in the business world are encouraged through a game-based learning experience. Here at MCI Institute, we want our students to have a competitive edge. That’s why we use an interactive online environment to help students think through real world problems, manage clients and practice skills learned in class.

Creativity, empathy, collaboration, critical thinking, and an expanded worldview help managers run effective operations. Industries are changing, and it’s important to be able to transfer skills and see opportunities from many angles. So, don’t be surprised if your tutor encourages you to play a game. Playing games could do your mind - and your career - a lot of good.

Looking for additional ways to boost your career? Undertake study with MCI Institute for the best online business courses in Australia.