THE POWER OF GAMES

RUBY S. BERMUDEZ

In a world full of distractions, we need to find ways on how to win the attention of our learners and one way of doing this is making learning fun and enjoyable. Incorporating game elements like competition, rewards and interactive activities could enhance retention and make learners pro-active. Various studies tell that positive emotions like enjoyment, pride , hope and happiness is associated with more achievements thus promote meaningful learning. With this in mind, I decided to infuse games in my teaching. As a Grade 5 teacher, I’ve been using the game-based strategy for many years and I can say that it’s effective and offers several advantages. It can be done inside or outside the classroom. It enhances critical thinking, decision-making and strategic planning skills of learners. Moreover, it encourages collaboration, problem solving, and adaptability which are essential in real world situations aside from experiencing enjoyment. In addition, game-based strategy can also help learners develop resiliency as they encounter challenges while the game is in progress, an important skill that is very much applicable in their daily lives. Nevertheless, thru this strategy teachers can also provide an immersive learning environment because game elements such as score system, levels, rewards, allow them to tailor learning experiences which could somehow address the different learning needs, styles and abilities of learners making education more inclusive and effective.

-oOoThe author is Teacher III at Bamban Elem.School, Masinloc, Zambales