This document discusses games-based learning and gamification in education. It defines games-based learning as using games designed for education or repurposing existing games for educational goals. Gamification involves adding game elements and mechanics to non-game contexts to increase engagement. The document contrasts the two, providing examples of each. It outlines advantages like improved engagement and learning skills, and disadvantages like technical issues or objectionable content. Examples of educational games are presented and the document encourages using games and gamification in classes to supplement lessons.

1. Games-Based Learning
and Gamification
Peterson Schools
Professional Development
June 13, 2013

2. G-B Learning & Gamification
Objectives:
 Define Games-Based Learning (GBL)
and Gamification, compare/contrast
 Provide a few examples, be as hands-
on as possible (not Death by
PowerPoint!)
 Done by 3:30

3. G-B Learning & Gamification
Games are serious business!
 Not “up and coming,” already here in
education (K-12 Horizon Report)
 Games market to hit US $2.5 billion by
2015 (fueled by education, mobiles)
 Immersive Learning Environments
being used by military and corporations
for training simulations

4. G-B Learning & Gamification
Are Games-Based Learning and
Gamification the same or are they
different?
Definitions? Comparisons/contrasts?

5. G-B Learning & Gamification
Games-Based Learning is a type of
gameplay with defined learning
outcomes. Goals: balance gameplay
with subject matter, relate both to real
world.
2 types of games:
 Designed specifically for education
 Made for fun, used for education

6. G-B Learning & Gamification
Gamification is the introduction of game
thinking and mechanics into a usually
non-game context in order to engage
users.
Doesn’t have to involve computers!
With or without rewards, leverages
people’s desires for competition and
achievement.

7. G-B Learning & Gamification
Gamification
Existing content/context, adding games
dimension to activities.
Games-Based Learning
Game is the content/context or the
delivery system.

8. G-B Learning & Gamification
Gamification
Example: Math contest, prizes for who
can solve equations fastest.
Games-Based Learning
Example: MathChimp (Common Core)
as lesson basis or supplement.

9. G-B Learning & Gamification
http://www.mathchimp.com

10. G-B Learning & Gamification
http://gamification.org/wiki/
Gamification Advantages
 Metrics include engagement, influence
 Non-metrics include fun, challenges
Gamification Disadvantages
 Rewards expected for performance
 Usual routine boring by comparison

11. G-B Learning & Gamification
http://mark.blogspot.mx/2005/12/what-
are-advantages-and-
disadvantages.html
Games-Based Learning Advantages
 Complete 21st century learning skills
 Digital natives are doing it anyway!
Games-Based Learning Disadvantages
 Usual technical and logistics issues
 Non-education games objectionable

12. G-B Learning & Gamification
How have you used or how can you use
Games-Based Learning and/or
Gamification in your classes?
Work together. Team up by subject? Not
lesson plans, but ideas.
While or after you’re working, we’ll be
demoing some current/future games.

13. G-B Learning & Gamification
Best List of Serious Games Databases:
http://gamesforchangechicago.com/conten
t/list-serious-games-databases
Great Summary:
http://www.teachthought.com/technology/h
ow-game-based-and-traditional-learning-
are-different/

14. G-B Learning & Gamification
Second Life – actually an Immersive or
Virtual Learning Environment (ILE/VLE)

15. G-B Learning & Gamification
OpenSimulator – actually an Immersive
or Virtual Learning Environment
(VLE/ILE)

16. G-B Learning & Gamification
MinecraftEdu

17. G-B Learning & Gamification
Quest Atlantis

18. G-B Learning & Gamification
World of Warcraft

19. G-B Learning & Gamification
Guild Wars 2

20. G-B Learning & Gamification
Thanks for your attention today!
Questions/comments?
ddeeds@peterson.mx