I love the idea that John Hunter has developed with the World Peace Game. I know that for me, I always learn so much more when I am involved in something like this- where I have to discover for myself how things work, vocabulary that I don't know, as well as working out relationships with others.
I remember doing something similar to this in a college elementary social studies course- we were learning about materials and trade, and each of us were a country. We were given what was realistic in that country, as well as any trade limitations that we had, and our task was to try and gain the most money or additional resources that we could for our country. It was amazing to be put into that position where we were the decision makers and the ones responsible for the well being of our country.
I loved how John Hunter discussed that through the game, the students "find out what is right- their own way, for their own selves." We definitely need more of that in our school systems, where it has become mostly rote memory and teaching to the tests.
He also hit on the fact that this proves authentic learning and education, going beyond data. I love when students can be assessed through other means than testing. I know as a mom, my second grade daughter is very anxious during testing, and doesn't do as well as if we were just discussing the topic, or if she were teaching it to a younger sibling. Through the World Peace Game, the students are learning all of these amazing things (vocabulary, world topics, war strategies, as well as general world topics. (And I think they were learning about weather systems as well?)
I would love to use games in the future. I know that many students are lost in the books and paper world of education, and by getting them active and learning through a game, they will be a lot more likely to learn the information. As teachers we are competing against the video and computer games that keep the students entertained for hours a day, and by doing something unique like a game, they have a greater chance to stay interested and involved in the lesson.
I don't have a specific game that I have used in a class, but for my own children, I love Starfall.com. I know my son uses it in his kindergarten class as well. Not nearly as involved as the Peace Maker Game, but it keeps my children entertained while learning. Always a good combination. :)
No comments:
Post a Comment