Games Based Learning MOOC

Wow! I had no idea gaming could offer such practical and inspiring benefits. Jane's talk gave me an unexpected new perspective that I had not imagined possible (kind of like an epic win!). I have never played any type of World of Warcraft game and frankly thought they must be boring and certainly a waste of time. But perhaps there's more to this whole gaming phenomenon. Perhaps having a safe and encouraging environment in which to practice boldness, develop and apply creative solutions, take definitive actions, and most importantly, be willing to fail and do it anyway, are powerful motivators and positive life skills worth cultivating. I'm not yet sure how I can implement this new awareness in my role as an instructional designer in an academic environment, but I am certain that I won't be quite so quick to dismiss a game-based activity or format as inappropriate or silly. Thanks for opening up my eyes and showing me the value of immersion and participation in a virtual world.

#7561347 myfirstmooc wrote:

Perhaps having a safe and encouraging environment in which to practice boldness, develop and apply creative solutions, take definitive actions, and most importantly, be willing to fail and do it anyway, are powerful motivators and positive life skills worth cultivating.

What an excellent description of what makes gaming fun! It also gives opportunities for us to offer students a challenge to collaborate on without so much of the stigma of "groupwork" attached.

[quote_post7561347 user=1006097]I'm not yet sure how I can implement this new awareness in my role as an instructional designer in an academic environment, but I am certain that I won't be quite so quick to dismiss a game-based activity or format as inappropriate or silly.[/quote_post7561347 user=1006097]

It's all in how it's implemented, really. I regard it as an additional tool in my toolbelt. Even when a full-blown gaming session might not be appropriate to help students learn something, some of the elements of gaming can be applied.

You might find it helpful to go back through some of the previous MOOC session's we've had, too. There's a LOT of reading there, but some true gems stand out. They're in the top menu under "MOOC I" and "MOOC II".

Love the username, by the way!

I agree. What an eye-opener! After watching the video, I went straight to "Evoke."
I recommend that everyone try her three games. It really is inspiring.

Thanks also for the transcription!

==Iovis14

Very persuasive! My thinking on the benefits of gaming in learning and reality have definitely shifted as a result of her presentation. This should be required viewing for many educators.

Leedale - Thanks for the feedback and suggestion to review some of the materials from the previous sessions of this MOOC. I'll try to do that. Glad to hear you like my user name!

I'm not yet sure how I can implement this new awareness in my role.

Pc Games Download