The Advantages of Game-based Learning

Playing video games is a leisure activity enjoyed by people belonging to all age groups. It refreshes the mind and removes stress from the body. With technology advancing at such a fast pace, games have become a source of learning now. Researchers have claimed that computer and video games improve your cognitive function like memory and reasoning.

However, it is important to keep a check on the time invested in playing these games since they have a few negative impacts as well. The future, on the other hand, has great potential for combining games and learning methods to build a learner-friendly environment. Commonly referred to as game-based learning, it is the new face of online education that involves both fun and learning.

Before we move ahead, let us first understand the basics of game-based learning.

What is game-based learning?

A learning method that allows students to explore different games in order to gain knowledge. The whole idea is to teach a subject or topic through the medium of a game. This keeps the learner engaged and helps them understand better.

How does it work?

Let us explain how game-based learning works with an example. Suppose you’ve enrolled in an online history course. The tutor can have the students play an online game at the end of every session. By allowing the students to play a game that transports them to an era they are studying about, the quality of learning can be enhanced to a greater degree. This method strikes a great balance between learning academic subjects and having fun.

What are the advantages of game-based learning?

• Source of motivation and discipline: Games include rules, objectives and goals. They compel learners to be interactive and promote a sense of achievement. Students can improve their planning and decision-making skills, which can be translated into real life as well. Plus, pupils tend to retain these skills for a long period.
• Growth of cognitive abilities: When students play a game repeatedly, they aim to win. This builds their strategic as well as logical thinking and helps them come up with newer methods to win. They learn to process things faster and take immediate actions. Through this method of learning, the overall development of the learner’s mind is facilitated.
• Improves hand-eye coordination: You have to stick your eyes on the screen while your hands direct your movement in the game. This results in improving the student’s motor and spatial skills. It creates an integrated learning environment where the learner can work on developing their skills and subject knowledge.
• Increases memory capacity: Playing games has a lot to do with building a strong memory. You need to remember narratives and memorize your best moves to win. When you train your brain to remember difficult game strategies, you’re also enhancing your real-life skills.

The benefits of online learning are many. Not only does playing video games enhance the abilities of the brain, but it also adds leisure time in the learner’s schedule. All of this combined provides mental stimulation that results in the overall development of a student. After all, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.