Teach English in Dongduzhuang Zhen - Liaocheng Shi

Game-based learning is a teaching method that allows learners to explore different parts of games as a form of learning. Games made for classroom can be designed by teachers and other education specialists in a way that balances academic subjects and entertainment. By definition, a game is simply a structured form of amusement and competitive activity involving skills that creates excitement and captivates any person of any age. The importance of using game to engage students in the active learning process was nothing new. Over the past, teachers have been progressively integrating various games as part of their educational program to provide fun and engaging environment for the students. Even though games can be time consuming and sometimes challenging, interactive and competitive games tend to motivate and encourage student’s participation. Some games have found to improve intellectual functions, while other games can train and enhance memory. Unlike common teaching practice, a well-developed game integrated with the curriculum can bring meaningful outcome and better students understanding of the program. This led to an explosion of educational, interactive gaming industry. Schools have infinite of games to choose from that fit mostly any program. An ongoing question on whether analog or digital games are best use for classrooms. Analog games are great tools to get students engage physically, and digital games add a level of interaction by creating unique experiences, deeper story lines, and offering different types of player’s participation. By pairing analog and digital games in classrooms we ensure that students are engaged in multi type of learning activities. New research suggests that fascinating games such as virtual reality create a sense of appreciation. To truly feel the game, it must be both immersive and spontaneous, it should give the students the freedom, fun, and excitement. Students can practice important skills by playing an educational game in a small group or with a partner. Whole class games are a great way to review skills for a test or at the end of the unit. When students are mentally drained, physical action games, for a break, works perfectly to ease the student’s brain. Games can be played in all subjects and at all student’s level. Students usually don’t complain about playing too many games and it is also beneficial especially on social development. While classroom game is on, teachers should avoid error correction, students should have the freedom to execute and adapt what they have learn from class. Teachers should watch and monitor student’s performance and feedback should be done immediately after the game. This allow students to reflect on their performance and perhaps produce positive strategies for next time. Each time students play the same game, they perform cognitive actions such as recalling the rules and remembering how the sequence of play works. Students utilize their strategic thinking skills and plan out ahead, making predictions about what might happen next. Students also develop strong problem-solving skills, they will need to think quickly on the spot without being able to hesitate, which is a skill that will serve them throughout their lives. Game-based learning allows students to develop mental, social and physical skills simultaneously. This learning enhances essential life skills like cooperation and teamwork. The knowledge and skills acquired through game-based learning are retained longer than information from other learning methods. It elevates student’s playing experience and can generate a profound and worthwhile learning experiences.