Look
around the malls, buses, eateries, where there are people who
congregate. They may be together, but each and everyone they have
their eyes fix on a particular object. Moreover, one will see that
almost everybody as if hypnotized by this modern day gadget known as
the mobile phone. This gadget supposed to be used for communication
has now evolved into a multi-media entertainment. The youngsters
especially, they are not communicating with someone. They are busy
with their favorite digital game.
Now
with the resurgence of this digital game, some educators are now
tapping the potential of taking advantage of the kids' attachments to
play digital games. Almost 74% of K-8 teachers are reported to have
used digital games for instruction. We have gone through the net and
gathered some ideas that may be helpful for a teacher who might be
willing to venture in bringing digital games in the classroom.
1.
Reality Check, Children, Tend to Play than Study
It
is an accepted reality. So why be frustrated, when kids are running
around, throwing paper balls or secretly playing games on their
mobile phones? Kids mean one play and play mean kids. So let's
explore the field where they are good at- play.
2.
Set Up & Parent Awareness
Digital
games mean one got to have gadgets. So one needs to decide what
gadgets that will be used. How about Tablets, laptops or Desktop
computers? Now in as much as this may cost something, it is better if
the teachers will inform the parents about her plan for setting up
her digital class. She can send them a letter about her plan. She can
check this site for an excellent example of a letter for the parents.
https:www..teachthought.com
3.
Know How and Right Games
The
teacher must love the games that she intends to use for her class.
Learn the tricks and even the cheats. It is essential because not all
her student will be smart and may frustrate them if they kept on
losing the game.
4.
Gadgets and Grouping
Will,
each student, have the computer by himself or will be shared by 2 or
even a group? Observe how this setup will be affecting the
willingness of each student. Is anyone being alienated? Check how
each has his turn.
5.
Rules and & Agreement
Delineate
a set of rules everyone would be willing to follow. It must be a
simple one. Remember, the kids are in a playful mood.
6.
Objective & Badges
What
is the objective? Share the purpose and reason why the teacher wants
to approach the teaching method this way with her students. Now kids
always love to go home and show off to their mom and dad the
achievements of the day. Prepare some cutout badges or a star stamp
in the game that the teacher can generously give for some outstanding
accomplishments.
7.
Scores, Grades & Feedback
Now
be careful not to translate the kids' winning or to lose the game
into their class grades. This method will dampen their enthusiasm or
make them fearful of losing. The teacher can devise a separate method
in giving grades. This is the time to ask the students their thoughts
about the method.
The
steps outlined above are just some suggestions that may help an
aspiring teacher to digitalize her method of teaching. There are
unlimited digital games that are now available in the market, and the
choices are limitless.
Reference
Source:
https://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/reasons-to-play-games-in-the-classroom.shtml
https://www.hmhco.com
https://www.educationworld.com
https://www.edutopia.org
http://globaldigitalcitizen.org
Author:
No comments:
Post a Comment