The Impact of Play and Gamification in Education

Did you know that play is considered essential for cognitive development from childhood through adulthood? Think about your favorite games: isn't it true that you never grow tired of playing them? Whether it's hide and seek, puzzles, building sets, or board games, there are hidden threads linking our memories, experiences, and emotions to play. These connections are deeply rooted in the natural motivation and engagement that play ignites in our minds!
 
The new edition of the course “Discover the power of Game Based Learning and Gamification in education​” took place in Bologna from 04/08/2024 to 10/08/2024. The participants came from all across Europe, with Michael from Erich Kästner Gymnasium Laatzen in Germany, Rebekka, Pauliina and Tommi from City of Vantaain Finland, María Astrid  from María Astrid  in Spain, Lenka and  Viera from Zakladna skola Kubranska 80 Trencin in Slovakia.

To begin, participants engaged in interactive ice-breakers to get acquainted with one another. They also had the opportunity to introduce themselves as game characters by designing avatars using generative AI. These avatars were meant to reflect their skills, personalities, and passions, resulting in a class filled with werewolves, paladins, bards, warriors, and pink princesses!

In the first session of the course, we explored the changing dynamics of different generations, examining how they have evolved over time. We also looked at how popular toys have changed across generations, mirroring societal shifts and technological progress, while still maintaining a connection to the joy of play. Additionally, we engaged in a reflective discussion on the educational importance of play, recognizing its significant impact on cognitive development and learning. We also bonded by sharing the games that shaped our childhoods and continue to influence our playful moments in adulthood.

We introduced participants to the Gamer Starter Pack, where we explored meaningful experiences within gaming environments. Through this exploration, we discussed how these experiences could be applied in educational contexts. The primary outcome of this part of the course was defining the most common gamification framework, highlighting how eight key internal and external motivators drive human engagement. In one practical activity, participants role-played as various common types of video game players, gaining hands-on insight into game-driven motivation.

In the final stages of the training course, we experienced the most active and engaging activities. We ventured outside for a city center scavenger hunt and tackled a digital escape room, solving riddles and puzzles to break free. These activities not only provided participants with the knowledge and tools to create personalized digital escape rooms for their students but also united the group around a common challenge and purpose.

Finally, participants discovered modern AI tools designed to create game-based experiences in the classroom, significantly enhancing student engagement and bringing a fresh spark to their teaching methods. We also discussed the broader impact of AI on the creative industry, including its transformative effects on education and the arts, exploring how these technologies are reshaping creative processes and educational practices. Being aware of these developments ensures we can harness these tools to enrich students' creative processes and inspire their learning journeys.

Discover more about this course here.