Gaming in the Classroom

GAMES IN THE CLASSROOM

Jordan Shapiro wrote about the concept of utilizing electronic games in the classroom and the roadblocks that are impeding full successful implementation of “game learning” in the classroom. Mr. Shapiro cites the following as the major walls according to surveyed teachers;

•  Not enough classroom time
  

•  The cost

•  Lack of Technology

• It is hard to find games that coincide with the lessons

• Standardized test score pressures

•  Unaware of resources or where to find quality games

•  Unclear on how to integrate the games with instruction

• Unfamiliar with technology

•  Not enough Administrative Support

•  Lack of Parental Support
  

Many of these issues are indeed interconnected. With the emergence of the common core standards many teachers are feeling the pressure. Many whom I have talked to feel they do not have enough time to cover everything they need to. So games for most perhaps may  not be a priority.  He states that 45% of teachers surveyed state time was the issue. He however suggests that perhaps if they change their perspective on the applicability of the games that they may find it to be very beneficial by presenting concepts in an active way.

Mr. Shapiro reveals that 90% of the 700 teachers surveyed state that parents in general do not support the utilization of electronic games in the classroom.  At the close of this article there are a few reader comments. I agree with “Paul.” Paul states that using games to learn are just fine; however that they don’t have to be strictly electronic. He suggests that students can act out themes, short story sharing, playlets and in general creativity outside of the electronic world. From a parental perspective I advocate non electronic means for games. However, I can see the benefit of occasional electronic game use in the classroom.

While there are many on his list I see the parental support and lack of time to be huge issues. Likely parents are not in favor of the games because they too are under the impression that the teachers don’t have time to cover it all as it is let alone adding electronic games into the mix.

I remember playing Oregon Trail in school. I still recall what I learned from that game. Always be prepared for the worst. Prepare for rough weather and unforeseen life circumstances. Budget your supplies and money wisely.Perhaps my tactic for winning over parents is to appeal to games that they played while in school and relate their memories to validate the usage of electronic games on occasion in my classroom. I will be teaching High School Social Sciences so I can see an application for games in that realm I found a few good applications on this site that I may consider utilizing in the future: http://www.econedlink.org/mobile-apps/


Below Denver Teachers have a TED Talk about gaming in the classroom:

References:  

Shapiro, J. (2014, September 12). Games in the Classroom: overcoming obstacles. In Mindshift. Retrieved October 28, 2014, from http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2014/09/games-in-the-classroom-overcoming-the-obstacles/