Game-based learning: is fun the key to better learning?

Brainstorming for this edition reminded me of one of my favourite teachers in uni. He taught English grammar, which is quite a dry topic if you ask me. However, he managed to make it fun. He came up with games, contests, and prizes to help us learn the parts of a sentence, recognise modifiers, direct and indirect verbs, and remember grammar rules.

Having fun can truly open the mind to new (and even complex) knowledge. For that reason, modern learning programmes in schools and businesses have started looking into game-based learning to create meaningful lessons and engage learners. So, for this month’s edition of The Spread, we decided to explore how games can improve the learning experience, as well as the pros and cons of gamified learning. Is fun the new way to revolutionise learning? Take a look at these articles and videos to find out. 

Understanding game-based learning

Business News Daily explores in this article the concept of gamification and how schools and companies apply it in their training sessions.

What is Gamification? Gamification involves the introduction of gameplay to a traditionally non-game environment. Gamification is meant to encourage user engagement.

Gamification in action

From VR games in classrooms to Super Mario, learn how games can change the way learners receive new information and the role of technology in game-based learning.

'Metaverse school' teaches students using VR Students at Reddam House school in Berkshire, England, are using VR headsets to enter the ‘metaverse’ for a variety of interactive lessons.
How to Gamify your Training In adult learning processes, gamification has proven to be an element that allows adults to fuel their imagination, and boost their creativity and problem-solving abilities. It basically makes the ‘hard stuff more fun’ motivating learners and making them more engaged with the learning matter.
The Super Mario Effect - Tricking Your Brain into Learning More YouTube star and former NASA engineer Mark Rober describes how this data-backed mindset for life gamification has stuck with him along his journey, and how it impacts the ways he helps (or tricks) his viewers into learning science, engineering, and design.

Is game-based learning the best way to learn?

While having fun while learning is a good way to assimilate new information, it is worth debating how useful game-based learning is when put into practice.

Pros and cons of gamification Gamification is the use of game mechanics in a learning-oriented setting. It can be a great tool, but some things need to be considered for it to be effectively used in the workplace. Keep reading to learn more.

The Preserve – The importance of sleeping well

With the clocks going back and days getting shorter, it is easy to find our sleeping pattern affected. However, having a good sleep is essential for our wellbeing, especially with longer nights. Learn what happens to your body when your sleeping pattern is affected and how to prepare a relaxing night time routine to unwind and sleep well.  

What Happens To Your Body And Brain If You Don't Get Sleep  Sleep expert Matthew Walker breaks down the many effects of sleep deprivation on your brain and body.
Bedtime Routine for Adults Your bedtime routine can be tailored to fit your specific needs and sleep environment. By incorporating sleep hygiene tips into your daily regimen, you can prime your body and mind for restful sleep.

Next month The Preserve will focus on Winter Wellbeing, but this newsletter is truly for Jam Pan by Jam Pan, so let us know if there is anything you'd like to hear about!