How to Transform Lessons Into Adventures

from Prodigy Education

By Abbie Misha  

EdSurge 

Aug 28, 2024 

Abbie Misha's article, "How to Transform Lessons Into Adventures," published on August 28, 2024, by Prodigy Education, explores the benefits of game-based learning and offers insights into effectively integrating this approach into classrooms. The article emphasizes how game-based learning can transform traditional lessons into engaging, adventure-like experiences that motivate students while fostering essential skills such as problem-solving, strategic thinking, and collaboration.

Game-Based Learning Defined

Dr. Josh Prieur, the Director of Educator Enablement at Prodigy Education, defines game-based learning as any educational game, whether physical or digital, used to enhance learning experiences. Prieur explains that games help students achieve a "state of flow," a psychological state of deep engagement where learners are fully absorbed in an activity they enjoy. This immersion not only makes learning fun but also significantly enhances students' engagement with educational content.

Prieur shares that teachers using Prodigy's platforms, such as Prodigy Math and Prodigy English, report high levels of student engagement. Students are drawn to the narrative and challenges within these games, making learning an enjoyable and effective process. This approach, according to Prieur, is the essence of effective game-based learning—where fun and education seamlessly merge.

Integration of Game-Based Learning

The key to successfully integrating game-based learning into the classroom is intentionality. Prodigy’s platforms offer adaptive, standards-aligned content that can be easily incorporated into various classroom activities, such as station rotation, math workshops, or even whole-group instruction. The adaptability of these tools allows teachers to align in-game educational content with their lesson plans quickly, making the learning experience both seamless and impactful.

Prieur emphasizes that while many students may discover and enjoy these games at home, the real power of game-based learning comes from its strategic use in the classroom. Teachers can enhance the educational impact by aligning game content with specific learning objectives, thereby reinforcing the material taught in class.

Benefits of Game-Based Learning

Game-based learning offers two primary benefits: improved academic performance and enhanced student attitudes toward learning. Prieur cites meta-analyses and studies conducted by Prodigy that demonstrate the positive impact of game-based learning on academic outcomes. For example, a study in California showed that students using Prodigy outperformed their peers who did not use the platform. Similarly, a correlational study in the Council Bluffs Community School District in Iowa found a significant positive relationship between Prodigy use and improved academic performance among fifth and sixth graders.

Additionally, game-based learning positively influences students' attitudes toward learning. Prieur mentions neurological research showing that how children feel about their learning experience is crucial. Studies on Prodigy users have shown significant improvements in math enjoyment and confidence, highlighting the emotional and psychological benefits of game-based learning.

Addressing Challenges and Customization

One common challenge in implementing game-based learning is the cost of tools. However, Prodigy offers its educational content for free, supported by optional parent memberships that provide additional features. This model ensures that students everywhere have access to high-quality educational games without financial barriers.

Furthermore, game-based learning tools like Prodigy are designed with diverse learners in mind. Features such as read-out-loud functionality, hints, and customizable content levels ensure that all students, including those with special needs or learning disabilities, can benefit from these tools. Prodigy’s commitment to accessibility is underscored by its certification from Digital Promise for Learner Variability, ensuring that the platform supports a wide range of learning styles and needs.

Conclusion

Misha’s article provides a comprehensive overview of how game-based learning can transform classroom lessons into engaging and educational adventures. By focusing on intentional integration, highlighting the benefits, and addressing challenges, educators can leverage game-based learning to enhance student engagement, improve academic outcomes, and create a positive learning environment.

Source: Prodigy Education

Original Article

------------------------------

Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com