Game Based Learning

The course will consider the pedagogical theory behind the success of this approach as a teaching and learning model. Throughout the course, you will have an opportunity to create your own games from simple slide shows, through physical puzzles and conundrums to live interactive games.

Each module will provide examples and models and suggestions for further reading and research on which you can base your own creative ideas. This course will also cover how to use gamification techniques to encourage student participation in lessons or increase their resilience in reaching a specified target or goal. We will see how to gain maximum benefit from gamification and learn how to measure the impact so that adjustments can be made if necessary. 

Finally, this course considers how to engage students and staff in your game-based learning and/or gamification approach. It will look at the promotion of ideas and how to encourage staff to plan collaboratively for delivery. We will also explore how you can share your ideas and creations and note the copyright restrictions that may apply.

Learning Objectives:

• Distinguish between various kinds of games;
• Identify principles and definitions of game design (e.g., reward mechanisms, activity loops, habit creation, fun, immersive experience, emerging and branching storytelling);
• Use games for educational propose;
• Draw from their personal experience or design entirely new game-based activities;