Game-Based Learning and Gamification by Carmine Rodi Falanga

About the training

#learning   #game-based learning   #gamification   #feedback

Everybody loves to play games: they are engaging, immersive and fun. Can we make our educational activities just as exciting and rewarding? This is “gamification”, the inclusion of elements of game-design in other areas or activities. Research and observation suggest that gamification provides tremendous benefits when used appropriately. Hence, learning about it, and how to integrate games effectively in an educational framework, is a powerful asset in the curriculum of any professional in the fields of education and communication.

Besides, we always learn something when playing a game. They are powerful learning tools for individuals and teams. To learn through games is engaging, effective and (why not?) fun!

This training can have two aims:

1) learn to design effective educational activities through the use of games and gamification; or

2) improve decision making, communication, teamwork through game-based learning.

It will cover topics like traditional games, role-playing games (RPGs), tabletop games, LEGO, digital and videogames. There will be a specific focus on social and educational games. It will introduce participants to concepts and models of game design, providing them with the full experience of designing a game (phases of concept, design, prototype, playtest). As the game design is a complex activity, it will draw from engineering, informatics, psychology, sociology, history, anthropology, communication science, arts and more to make teachers feel at ease while creating their first game.

The course will have a very hands-on approach, combining elements of the theory, group work, and discussion with experiential phases in which participants will have an opportunity to design their own games and learn from direct experience. As a participant, you will also be introduced to the concept and practice of gamification, and receive easy-to-apply tips to include elements of game design in your professional and daily life.

Duration of training

from one day to one week, depending on the objectives

Audience

• Company staff;
• Headteachers, principals, and managers of schools;
• Higher education institution staff;
• Non-governmental organization staff;
• Recent graduates / Students;
• Teacher trainers;
• Teachers & school staff: primary level;
• Teachers & school staff: secondary level;
• Teachers & school staff: special needs;
• Teachers & school staff: adults;
• Teachers & school staff: vocational.