Game-Based Learning: How it makes kids smarter

Advancement of technology has led to an expansive growth in the ed-tech sector all over the world resulting in the digitisation of education. The pandemic has only expedited the process triggering a paradigm shift in learning methods from blackboards and books to desktops and mobile phones. With online education taking the centre stage during the COVID-19 crisis, teachers and educationists are looking for innovative ways to create e-learning opportunities for students in order to ensure the best outcome.  

Game-based learning (GBL) is considered to be an effective e-learning method that enhances the absorption capacity of children in more ways than one. Simply put, GBL is the integration of games in classroom lessons to fulfil the educational goals of students in an efficient manner. Widespread use of digital devices in the era of online learning has paved the way for GBL. Here are the top 6 ways game-based learning improves learning outcomes.  

Leads to better understanding of concepts 
Games are visually appealing and interactive in nature enabling them to retain the attention span of kids for long. Longer attention span translates into better understanding of concepts (the tough ones too!) leading to enhanced learning outcome.  

Sharpens memory 
According to a study published in the journal video games Learning, Media and Technology, audio-visual games stimulate the secretion of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the central part of the user’s brain stem. This leads to enhanced recall. This is because visual inputs have a strong impact on our memory.  

Builds life skills 
A lot of games require kids to perform activities that inculcate real-world life skills. While racing games teach them driving, those based on space science and engineering promote STEM learning. There is a wide variety of games involving music, farming, money management, so on and so forth.   

Inculcates strategic thinking  
Most games, especially the ones based on mystery and adventure, necessitate fast thinking and on-spot decision making. Also, the advanced levels of these games need the player to plan their moves ahead of time. All these improve the logical reasoning and problem-solving skills of kids, while enhancing their analytical abilities. 

Develops hand-eye coordination 
Video games require kids to pay attention to the screen while controlling the on-screen activities with handheld devices. This helps in hand-eye coordination.  

Promotes fluency in digital devices 
While playing games online, children need to use digital devices like computer, tablets or mobile phones. Moreover, they get introduced to internet navigation. All these are necessary skills in a world dominated by technology. Some virtual games teach kids to create user ID and passwords too.