Game-based learning is rich with opportunities that enhance the student experience while helping teachers solve classroom challenges. A recent study by the A-Games project (Analyzing Games for Assessment in Math, ELA/ Social Studies, and Science) shed light on game usage in the classroom – including how teachers are using games as formative assessment tools.
More than 50% of survey participants indicated that digital learning games are used weekly or monthly for teaching purposes. The most common use for digital learning games in the classroom is to cover mandated content as opposed to teaching supplemental material.
The survey also showed that the majority of teachers believe games are effective for motivating students, helping reinforce previously taught content, providing useful information about student learning, and teaching new concepts. In addition to teaching content, games are being used as formative assessment tools.
The A-Games study revealed that 34% of teachers use learning games on a weekly basis for formative assessment and 13% of the time for summative assessment. Learning games as formative assessment tools are used more frequently in self-contained classrooms (42%) when compared to subject-matter only classrooms (28%).
Game-based learning is growing and its role in the classroom will evolve as teachers become more comfortable using digital games as teaching and evaluation tools. The game-based learning question has shifted from “if” games will be used in the classroom to “when.” Check out the resources below and make sure you’re ready to harness the power of game-based learning.
Resources:
A-Games Study
What Makes Great Learning Games?
Research Roundup: Studies Support Game-Based Learning