Classroom is no playground!
But it can be!
Gamification Workshop
ABSTRACT
A classroom is not a playground, and it should not be since it is a place for formal education. However, there are elements of playfulness and games that can keep students engaged, and enrich every classroom from primary, secondary, and young adults, to life-long learning and professional training sessions.
The application of game elements for non-entertainment purposes is called gamification, and during this workshop [1] participants will be presented with a few examples of gamified courses. The examples will range from simple elements used successfully on a daily basis in, e.g., primary schools and universities. [2] Then, a selection of game elements, mechanics, and dynamics (according to Prof. Kevin Werbach) will be presented so that workshop participants have an understanding of what there is at their disposal, what are the benefits and pitfalls of introducing some solutions, and finally, which pieces fit their own lessons and courses best. They will also be advised on gamification tools available on the market. [3] Finally, the core of the workshop will be devoted to working in teams and preparing a simple gamified solution for subjects that participants teach.
The main goal of the workshop is for the participants to gain tangible results applicable to their schools, courses, or training sessions. The theory will be kept to the minimum required for the understanding of main concepts and their application.
Participants are not required to have any prior knowledge of gamification, however, a basic understanding of board games, card games or video games will help immensely. As a reminder, gamification does not relate to applying commercial games or educational games in the classroom, i.e. game-based learning. The participants will not be asked to know games or play games; they will design a gamified addition to their current courses.
