How Storylines Enhance the Effectiveness of Educational Games
A teacher can utilize educational games in several ways to enhance learning. Students can collaborate to solve a problem or complete a game, which is especially useful for shy students. Teachers can use collaborative games to help students visualize concepts they are studying. Teachers can use whiteboards or paper to play group games, and can also include subject-specific concepts into the game. Then, students can collaborate with others to finish the game. They can work on a common goal or use the games to alleviate academic pressure.
Storyline is a critical component of educational games
While a compelling storyline is an important element of learning games, few studies have examined the impact of storylines on the effectiveness of digital learning materials. In this systematic review, we examine current findings on the effects of this game design element and identify key questions about the storylines in digital games. Our findings point to four key components of a strong story:
A compelling storyline is an effective way to convey the content of a learning game. It can be accomplished through the use of visuals and brief “back stories” in the rules. However, many games simply introduce the theme without a narrative thread running throughout the game. In order to make educational games more effective, storylines must be integrated into learning games to provide context for facts. When learners have context, they are more likely to retain what they are learning.
Students can collaborate with others to complete a game
The design of a collaborative digital game allows students to work together in teams and develop deep thinking skills. Such games often involve a large number of players and multiple levels of play, requiring students to work individually and in groups to complete the goals. Some games require students to complete additional research beyond the game to find the answer to a question. Dr. Harrison argues that educators should always be available to help students with the learning objectives and game mechanics.
To ensure that learning games are effective in the classroom, educators and game developers must be aware of the physical infrastructure of the school. Without an understanding of these realities, developers can face difficulties early on. Failure to consider the practical needs of schools can prevent educational games from reaching their potential. As a result, educators and game developers need to consider the constraints and opportunities of formal education before designing their educational games. It is also crucial to understand the technological infrastructure of schools and how to integrate them into their projects.
Educational games reduce academic pressure
Educators say educational games are a great way to relieve academic pressure and increase participation among all students. Games allow teachers to differentiate tasks by offering various difficulty levels, which encourage participation. Students can also benefit from these games as they disrupt traditional learning strategies and provide opportunities for all students to succeed. According to Banerjee, an educator for 29 years, educational games can also reduce student stress and boost engagement in learning. She notes that students who are engaged in learning through games tend to make better decisions and take more risks.
In a study involving over three hundred school children, there was no evidence that habitual gamers performed worse on tests. However, kids who spent more time playing video games had higher grades and scores on other academic measures. Other studies have also suggested that the type of game play matters. This is especially true when it comes to PISA, an internationally recognized test of scholastic achievement. A complete survey can be obtained from the corresponding author on request.
