Game-based learning to reach a high degree of classroom engagement

Did you know that playing is a crucial component of cognitive development from birth through adulthood? Think about your favorite games: have you ever gotten tired playing them? Being it hide and seek, puzzles, construction games, board games, there are invisible threads linking our memories, experiences and feelings in connection to playing games and they are all linked to the intrinsic motivation and engagement they trigger in our mind!
 
The new edition of the course “Discover the power of Game Based Learning and Gamification in education​” took place in Palermo from 24/11/2024 to 30/11/2024. The participants came from all across Europe, with Maria Christina and Elena from Makarios Lyceum III LARNAKA in Cyprus and Sara and Anne from BSZ Delitzsch from Germany. 

The course was game-based, following a sequence of levels from the very beginning. First, we asked participants to create their own characters to join the game, more specifically avatars. This elements are symbolic characters and new superheroes were thus used as a basis to get to know each other, including strengths and passions. It became even more noticeable how rich and diverse our group was, perfectly reflecting the reality of every class at school. 

During the first level we discussed the pedagogical value of playing and how games stimulate learning. We reflected and acknowledged that teachers are most of the time “digital immigrants” in an educational cosmos that is nowadays populated by digital natives only.
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In the second level, the players identified the most prevalent gamification framework, learning the process through which eight key internal and external motivators impact human engagement. Through a challenge on the differences between gamification and game-based learning, our “players” could better clarify that gamification applies game elements into a non-game environment while game-based learning is a teaching approach whereby learning happens through playing the game itself. 

The third level focused on real life experiences. We went outside to enjoy a scavenger hunt game in the city center of Palermo. Later, they learned how to create their own scavenger hunt experience with their students to keep their motivation high even outside the classroom.

In the fourth level, we compiled and explored a variety game-based tools and apps. They also got acquainted with modern online tools able to produce a significant improvement of students’ engagement and bring a spark in the classroom! After facing various challenges, the "players" were given the opportunity to create their own quizzes and games for their students.

In the fifth level, we were locked in a digital escape room trying to solve riddles and puzzles to escape. Participants finally tried to find the best way to create digital escape rooms and how to gamify their own classrooms considering their students’ characteristics and learning objectives.
After completing an exciting scavenger hunt and solving the mystery step by step, the participants successfully uncovered their well-deserved certificates. Their teamwork, problem-solving skills, and determination led them to triumph and brought the adventure to a rewarding conclusion!

Discover more about this course here.