Game-Based Instruction & Gamification

Some common games instructors have adapted to suit their teaching objectives are: Jeopardy, Scavenger Hunt and Family Feud.

Purpose: The instructor can choose the game that best suits their teaching objective. For example, using a role-play game for learning offers students the opportunity to collaborate, apply their knowledge and get feedback within a safe environment. Whether face to face or virtual, game-based learning is intended to create a balance between subject matter and game play that results in the player gaining knowledge and the ability to apply what they have learnt in the real world.

Note: Game-based Instruction is sometimes confused with Gamification which is significantly different. The goal for both is to engage students by encouraging specific behaviours and assisting them in keeping track of their own learning. However, with gamification this is done though badges or point systems (leaderboards) or other game-like mechanics. These game mechanics are applied to existing learning activities. For example, badges can be awarded to students who have reached a certain level by submitting extra work, achieving an above average test score, or for participating actively within class discussions. The objective with these mechanisms is to encourage students to engage and be motivated to learn the course material in order to achieve points or badges.