Games Based Learning DSI

  Today we looked at Game based learning using the Nintendo DS. We played 4 different games for the DS while thinking about the advantages and disadvantages of each game. We then selected the 2 games we thought would be most appropriate in schools and would help engage and enhance children's learning. The different games require the use a variety of skills and link to different areas within the Curriculum. 

Maths Training

The game requires the children to use their arithmetic skills in adding, subtracting and multiplication. This game is more suitable for children in the middle and upper levels of the school. Although it the simple addition and subtraction can be used in the lower end of the school. It would be a good warm activity at the beginning of a maths lesson because it will get the children to think on their feet. It is quite competitive which creates a sense of excitement, so there could be class competitions of who can complete the tests the quickest and get the best scores. "I can use addition, subtraction, multiplication and division when solving problems, making best use of the mental strategies and written skills I have developed. MNU 1-02a"  The only disadvantage of this game would be that the children have to write the answers using the stylus on the screen and sometimes the DS does not recognise the number you have written therefore they would get the answer incorrect.

Imagine Teacher

This game is really fun and is suited to the upper, middle and lower stages of the school. The game is based on a teacher who is trying to encourage more pupils to join the class by teaching interesting and effective lessons. The player has to complete different tasks on a variety of subjects in order to gain more pupils. This game will test the children's knowledge within these different subject areas e.g. Geography, Biology and Music. It will provide the younger children will new knowledge on the subjects they have not covered in school. For the children in the upper stages of school, this game requires them to use their problem solving skills as they need to identify which subjects the pupils do not enjoy and put the children in the appropriate seats to avoid bad behaviour.

Reference

Scottish Government (2009, p2) Learning, teaching and assessment. Curriculum areas. Mathematics. Experiences and outcomes. Word file: Numeracy and mathematics: Experiences and outcomes (518 KB) Available http://www.ltscotland.org.uk/learningteachingandassessment/curriculumareas/mathematics/eandos/index.asp [accessed 21/3/11]