Gamification is not a branch of gaming. It is not a type of video game, nor is it the use of video games in the classroom. Gamification is the concept of applying game mechanics and game design techniques in non-game contexts; to motivate participation, engagement and loyalty. No longer can education be viewed as a mundane process for providing information while assessing for retention and understanding. The future focused educator has the challenge of engaging students, stimulating their interests, retaining their attention, and developing actively involved, lifelong learners. As teachers, gamification allows us to maximise student enjoyment and engagement in the classroom by capturing the interest of learners and inspiring them to continue learning.
Throughout this session Carl will describe successful real world examples of gamification, explore educational applications of gamification, and discuss some of the challenges and successes Carl has had in his classes using gamification. The session will conclude with a mini workshop where you explore a range of game mechanics and attempt to implement them in different topics or units of work from the Health and Physical Education learning area.