From SMART Boards to tablets, technology has significantly transformed the way students learn. One of the latest trends, gamification, is the use of game design and mechanics to enhance learning. Research has shown that children are more likely to become engaged when gaming elements are incorporated into lessons.
According to research from Deakin University, incorporating games into curriculum dramatically alters students’ attitudes toward math. By turning math lessons into games, students apply more energy and motivation and, as a result, are more successful. By adding technology into the mix, motivation increases. As the founder of TechMamas.com found out, the creativity and ease of gaming programs on mobile devices makes homework assignments more enjoyable for students.
Gamification options are diverse and increasing. Some classrooms assign digital badges in an online learning application to give students a sense of accomplishment. Others find that swapping out formal letter grades for a point system allows students to view class as an exciting challenge. Resources like SimCityEDU teach STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in a virtual environment, challenging students to think critically. And, Minecraft lets users build structures with blocks, providing a creative model for physics lessons. The MapMaster app tests a student’s knowledge of geography while competing with friends.
Equipping classrooms and students with the right technology is the starting point for this kind of engagement. Innovative mobile technology such as Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network, combined with tablets and a wide array of apps enable educational gaming in an easy-to-transport fashion, so engagement continues outside of the classroom.