See What’s Hot In Game-Based Learning
Learning doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, education today is becoming more and more engaging, as we realize that textbooks and dull lectures don’t inspire us anymore. This is why game-based learning has become popular, whether in schools, corporate training, or skill development programs, as it makes learning fun, interactive, and effective.
You have probably heard about gamification, too, but it’s not the same thing. Game-based learning involves actual games designed for educational purposes, like a simulation game where students learn certain skills by playing scenarios. Gamification, on the other hand, takes game-like elements, such as points, leaderboards, and rewards, and applies them to non-game environments, like courses themselves, to make learning more engaging.
However, just because we’re talking about games doesn’t mean that only kids benefit from this approach. Businesses also use game-based learning to train employees in leadership, teamwork, and decision making because they know that sitting through traditional corporate training sessions is not as engaging and, thus, not as effective. Games are here to stay, and however they’re used in education, they are proven to offer valuable knowledge and help with retention. So, let’s see what’s popular in game-based learning so you can integrate it into your own approach, whether you’re a learner or an instructor.
6 Popular Trends In Game-Based Learning
1. Serious Games
Serious games are actually some of the most engaging tools in education and corporate training today. Unlike traditional video games designed for entertainment, serious games are built to teach real-world skills in an interactive way. There are games out there that aim to teach everything from math and coding to teamwork and environmental science. For example, a game about city planning, where learners structure a city and oversee its economy, helps them understand economics, sustainability, and decision making. These games are powerful because they encourage learning by doing; instead of passively reading about concepts, players actively apply them in-game. Plus, serious games are perfect for problem solving, collaboration, and critical thinking, which are much-needed skills in both education and the workplace.
2. AI-Powered Game-Based Learning
An AI-driven game adjusts to your skills in real time, meaning it will be as challenging as you need it to be. Unlike traditional courses, this approach is more adaptive, with the help of AI, which analyzes how a player is progressing and adjusts the difficulty, hints, and content accordingly. For instance, you can find math-learning platforms that tailor exercises based on how students solve problems and even offer personalized hints when needed. Similarly, some other apps provide adaptive tutoring, analyzing students’ strengths and weaknesses to guide them toward courses. These AI-powered tools make learning feel like a challenge, sparking learners’ interest and motivating them even when they feel like giving up.
3. VR And AR
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) take education to the next level by making lessons more immersive, interactive, and fun. How? With VR, learners can put on a headset and visit simulated environments, such as ancient civilizations, oceans, other planets, prehistoric times, and more. On the other hand, AR overlays digital elements onto the real world, such as planets, human organs, or historical artifacts, placing them right in learners’ hands using just a smartphone or tablet. A new addition to this is Mixed Reality (MR), which blends both VR and AR for even more interactive experiences. All that isn’t possible with simple textbooks or plain courses, making these technologies an important part of game-based learning.
4. Esports
Esports are a newfound way of teaching learners about teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking. Schools and universities worldwide leverage this, as they understand that competitive gaming can offer the same benefits as traditional sports. Hence, esports help students grow their communication and adaptability. Games like League of Legends or Rocket League require players to make quick decisions, adapt their strategies, and communicate with teammates under pressure. These skills are valued in business and real-world problem solving. Although using esports as an educational tool is a controversial topic, universities like the University of California, Irvine, and Miami University have esports programs, offering scholarships and gaming facilities.
5. Soft Skills Development
Games are not only used for school subjects like maths, science, and history; they are also used to build soft skills such as emotional intelligence, communication, and decision making. As it turns out, interactive experiences are a great way to practice real-world skills in a low-risk environment. For instance, there are games that require players to collaborate to solve problems, which allows them to practice clear communication, teamwork, and staying calm under pressure. Meanwhile, other games help players develop empathy by reading facial expressions and making ethical decisions that impact the game’s world. And with soft skills being in demand, maybe your company or school should start considering game-based learning for more effective results.
6. Mobile Game-Based Learning
Everyone is on their phones, so mobile game-based learning turns this time into productive learning moments. There are plenty of apps like Duolingo that have turned learning into a game and thus have made it easier to do a quick lesson even while waiting for your coffee or commuting to work. Whether it’s learning a new language, sharpening math skills, or improving memory, these short lessons are designed to be fun, interactive, and, most importantly, accessible anytime. They’re also leveraged by companies that use game-based apps to train employees in leadership, communication, and even compliance, making corporate training more engaging and challenging.
What To Look Out For When Implementing Game-Based Learning
Cost
One of the biggest problems in adopting game-based learning is the cost. High-quality educational games, especially those using VR or AI, aren’t cheap. So, schools with limited budgets often can’t afford them and instead prioritize textbooks, teacher salaries, and basic classroom supplies. Similarly, companies may not be able to afford these games, especially if they need them to be custom-made for specific skills and roles. However, the solutions are open-source educational games, low-cost apps, and game-building platforms that are more budget-friendly alternatives.
Accessibility
Even when schools or companies can afford game-based learning, not everyone can access the technology. Some students might not have a steady connection or powerful devices, while, in workplaces, employees in remote areas or those with older computers may struggle to engage with these materials. And let’s not forget people with disabilities. Not all educational games are designed with inclusive features like screen readers, subtitles, etc. The good news is that game developers know of these issues, and many educational games now include accessibility features. Plus, schools and businesses can also offer mobile-friendly solutions to reduce the need for strong equipment.
Reluctance
Even if you handle the cost and accessibility issues, people will still resist change. Educators, corporate trainers, and even students sometimes avoid game-based learning because they’re used to more traditional methods. Teachers may worry that games will be a distraction, parents might question whether their kids are truly learning, and employees might prefer simple training sessions. To overcome this, you should start informing people and showing proof that game-based learning works. So, run a pilot program, gather data, and make presentations. Once educators and managers see the benefits, they’ll be more likely to be convinced.
Conclusion
Game-based learning is popular because it makes education more engaging, interactive, and effective. Whether it’s used in classrooms or corporate training, it helps students and employees gain real-world skills that stick with them. As we mentioned above, every new technology can contribute to game-based learning, making it more personalized and meaningful. If done right, game-based learning can completely change the way people approach learning, making them come back for more. So, you don’t have anything to lose; just try it.
