Post #7

        The role of technology in the classroom is essential, that much we have determined. Now the question remains, what is the best way to accomplish a successful, engaging classroom with this technology? Video games, and other technology like it, are one way to grab student’s attention and create an effective classroom environment. I have experienced this engagement first hand when I piloted a new app from Glass Labs. It was called Mars Generation One: Argubot Academy. The objective was to walk around the space station collecting evidence and reasons to support your claim. The student would then choose the best combination and battle the opposing team’s argubot. Whoever had the stronger argument, would be victorious. This was in fact engaging for the students and reinforced the lesson of finding and using the best evidence and reasoning. This is a fantastic example of how gaming can be used in the classroom for an effective lesson.

        Students are naturally curious and competitive, so why not feed that curiosity and competitive nature with a fun, academic game? Students can be exposed to multiple experiences where their curiosity enhances their problem-solving skills. This skill is vital to be successful in the real world. The skills learned through gaming, such as problem-solving, or even quick decision making can be translated from the virtual to real world. Some may say that this is a negative effect of gaming, the fact that children may confuse the two. However, as with anything, teachers and parents need to be proactive and teach appropriate behavior and understanding of the purpose of technology. It is to enhance our learning for our future real world experience, not replace it.  “Technology is powerful and complicated.” That is why a combination, or balance, between technology and traditional form of learning should be used. Technology can be used to “express themselves, find other people, and remake the world on their own terms.” So, let’s let them fly.