Video games have long been a source of controversy when it comes to their place in education. Many people believe that video games are a distraction and have no place in the classroom. However, recent studies have shown that the right games can actually be beneficial for students, helping them stay engaged and learn about a variety of subjects such as history, science, math, and more.
According to a 2019 study from Carnegie Mellon University, nearly 75% of teachers have incorporated digital game-based learning into their lesson plans. Games like „The Oregon Trail“ have been used in American classrooms since the 1970s to teach students about 19th-century pioneer life. Today, there are countless options available for teachers and students to explore.
Patrick Jagoda, a game studies and game design professor at the University of Chicago, believes that games have immense potential for teaching people new concepts. He emphasizes that games are not just for entertainment, but can also be valuable tools for interactive learning. Games can teach students about economies, political systems, climate change, and more.
One example of a game used for educational purposes is „Infection City,“ where players take on the roles of either an infection or an epidemiologist. This game allows students to learn about the spread of diseases and the importance of public health. Another game in development at the University of Chicago, called „Haven,“ focuses on freedom of expression and encourages students to engage in debates and conversations about controversial topics.
Jagoda and game designer Ashlyn Sparrow believe that games provide a safe space for students to fail and learn from their mistakes. Interactive puzzles can be collaborative or competitive, and compelling stories can be played from multiple perspectives. Games like „Peacemaker,“ which allows players to take on the roles of Palestinian and Israeli leaders in a quest for peace, demonstrate the potential for games to promote empathy and understanding.
For teachers interested in incorporating games into their classrooms, Jagoda and Sparrow suggest that students can play a leading role by discussing the games they are playing, connecting them back to lessons, or even designing their own games for the class. They believe that games are a modern form of art that can engage students in ways that traditional teaching methods cannot.
In conclusion, while video games may have a negative reputation in society, they have the potential to be powerful tools for learning in the classroom. By carefully selecting and integrating games into lesson plans, teachers can help students stay engaged and develop a deeper understanding of complex subjects. Games offer a unique opportunity for interactive learning and can inspire creativity and critical thinking in students.