The Theory Of Game-Based Learning

The theory of game-based learning (GBL) involves a new way of training the employees of companies. We are talking about the use of games for learning. The offer for gamified content is increasing and getting more and more varied, with video games designed for nearly all target audiences and sectors.

At corporate level, this methodology is experiencing an undeniable boom. These are the principles upon which training through games is laid:

Constructivist learning

Game-based learning is built upon a constructivist type of learning. What does this mean? Constructivism posits the need to provide students with the necessary tools so they can build their own procedures in order to solve a problem. This implies a participatory process by students, who interact with their environment to solve the situation that is being set out to them.

Practice, experience and interaction

Safe practice, experiential learning and interaction are the pillars upon which the theory of game-based learning stands. Learning through games allows students to experiment in non-threatening scenarios and acquire knowledge through practice and social interaction both with the environment and their peers.

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Motivating approach

One of the strengths of game-based learning is its recognized capacity to capture the attention of students and ensure their full involvement: their engagement. The motivating approach of these games turns the learning process into something dynamic and interesting, whose appeal is maintained as students progress to achieve objectives.

Encouragement of reflection

Besides motivation and a playful approach, GBL lays out situations that require reflection and decision making on the part of students in order to solve a problem. This way, the participant acquires knowledge and absorbs concepts while developing cognitive abilities derived from critical thinking, analysis of reality and conflict resolution.

Feedback and self-control

Unlike more traditional teaching methods, game-based learning allows the person being trained to have control of their own learning. Using serious games, students can get instant and personalized feedback about their knowledge and everyone is aware of what they learn and what they must work harder at.

Process monitoring

Of course, the feedback and the control over learning is not something only the student can check. Besides the scoring system and the gradual improvement made by beating levels or the training itself, everything gets recorded into the program.

This way, those responsible for the training activities can study the choices made by the student, their right and wrong answers, and the decisions that have been made on the way. This system provides a very large amount of information so as to assess the level of understanding of participants, their weaknesses and strengths and, most importantly, it ensures that the person actually acquires the knowledge and skills on which they have been working.

Creativity

The theory of game-based learning cannot ignore the benefit to creativity provided by the new ways of learning. The game encourages creativity and motivation by posing challenges and problems that students must solve using their imagination.

Soft Skills

If game-based learning is used for the development of social skills and soft skills, interaction and collaboration among participants are emphasized. The practical work focuses on aspects such as emotional intelligence, leadership, communication, self-control, negotiation and conflict resolution skills, etc. All of them skills impossible to learn without practice, which game-based learning simulators exceptionally provide.

Read more: Corporate Training: 5 reasons for using game-based learning

Digitalization

Yet another advantage of game-based learning is the opportunity it presents to users to improve their computer skills and become familiar with the use of digital devices, essential in personal and professional development in the XXI century.

A GBL learning program implemented in a corporate environment is more likely to succeed than a “classic” e-learning program, be it traditional or distance learning. Knowledge retention is much higher through gamification, which guarantees a learning that is effective and dynamic. Cost savings is another huge advantage due to its flexibility in time and space.

The game-based learning for corporate training offered by Gamelearn is based on three basic points, keys to its international success: quality content, simulators and gamification.