Gamifying Learning: Increased Engagement through Game-Based Strategies

Course overview

This immersive 5-day course is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and practical strategies to incorporate game-based learning and gamification techniques into their classrooms. Participants will explore the power of games in fostering engagement, motivation, and immersive learning experiences for students of all ages.

The course will delve into the principles and definitions of game design, including reward mechanisms, activity loops, habit creation, fun, immersive experiences, and emerging and branching storytelling. Participants will gain insights into the various types of games and their potential for educational purposes.

Emphasis will be placed on hands-on activities and practical exercises, allowing participants to draw from their personal experiences or design entirely new game-based activities tailored to their educational contexts. Participants will learn how to effectively incorporate game elements into their educational work, leveraging the principles of gamification to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

The course will also explore the potential of games to spread or reinforce values in communities and society. Participants will examine case studies and examples of how games can promote positive values, foster inclusivity, and address social and environmental issues.

To enhance the learning experience and provide a cultural context, the course will incorporate a guided visit to a local museum, heritage site, or eco-conscious initiative. This visit will allow participants to explore the cultural richness of the area, draw inspiration from sustainable practices, and gain insights into incorporating inclusive and green dimensions into their game-based learning strategies.

Tentative schedule:

Day 1: Introduction to game-based learning and gamification

Icebreakers and networking activities
Introduction to the course and participants
Overview of the course methodology and expectations
Exploring the power of games in education
Distinguishing between various types of games
Group discussions: Challenges and opportunities in game-based learning

Day 2: Game design principles and practical applications

Introduction to game design principles and the theory of “fun”
Reward mechanisms, activity loops, and habit creation
Hands-on activities: Developing “1-page games”
Reflection and discussion

Day 3: Educational games and value-based learning

Dynamics and mechanics of educational games
Case study: Adapting successful games for educational purposes (e.g. Minecraft)
Values in games: Promoting positive values and addressing social/environmental issues
Group work: Game design for value-based learning

Day 4: Gamification and cultural exploration

In-depth session on “Gamification” with case studies and examples
Incorporating game elements into educational work
Cultural visit (e.g. museum, heritage site) guided in English to explore local heritage and sustainability practices
Post-visit activities: Integrating cultural and environmental elements into game-based learning

Day 5: Video game-based learning and course wrap-up

Introduction to video game-based learning and digital youth work
Playtesting of educational games developed by participants
Presentations: Participants showcase their game-based learning strategies
Course evaluation and feedback
Certification ceremony

The classes typically run from 9 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, with the afternoon and evening reserved for self-reflection and individual study. However, the course schedule may be adjusted to accommodate the preferences of the participants and the availability of instructors or external learning locations. Participants will receive the finalized schedule well in advance, allowing ample time for preparation and planning.

Learning outcomes:

The participants will be able to:

Distinguish between various types of games and their potential for educational purposes.
Analyze the principles and definitions of game design, including reward mechanisms, activity loops, habit creation, fun, immersive experiences, and emerging and branching storytelling.
Design game-based activities and incorporate game elements into their educational work, leveraging the principles of gamification to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
Evaluate the potential of games to spread or reinforce positive values in communities and society, addressing social and environmental issues.
Develop educational games that promote inclusivity, foster positive values, and address social and environmental concerns.
Integrate cultural elements and inspiration from local heritage and sustainable practices into their game-based learning strategies, promoting inclusivity and environmental consciousness.
Implement video game-based learning and digital youth work strategies to create immersive and engaging learning experiences.
Collaborate with fellow educators to share best practices, strategies, and resources for effective game-based learning and gamification in educational contexts.
Analyze case studies and examples of successful game-based learning and gamification implementations, identifying key factors for success.
Develop a comprehensive game-based learning strategy that incorporates gamification techniques, value-based learning, and cultural and environmental elements, fostering student engagement and promoting positive change.

Course fee:

400 euro per participant (covered entirely by the Erasmus grant)

Course fee includes:

At least 25 hours of course content;
Course materials;
Certificate of participation;
Europass, on request;
Learning / Mobility Agreement;
Visits to local institutions, if available;
Personalized support;
Free high-speed WIFI internet at the POU Čakovec premises;
Refreshments;
Administration costs;
Dissemination materials.

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