Three Myths of Getting Started With Gamification

Summary

This video script dispels common myths about gamification in education. It clarifies that gamification isn't about creating games or requiring one to be a gamer. Instead, it's about applying game mechanics to enhance lesson design and engagement. The script emphasizes that gamification doesn't necessitate winners or digital elements, and can be effectively integrated into both traditional and tech-rich classrooms. It encourages educators to explore resources and start gamifying their classes to boost student agency and success.

Takeaways

• 🎮 Gamification is not about creating a game, but about applying game mechanics to existing educational activities to make them more engaging.
• 🛠️ You don't need to be a gamer to implement gamification; it's about good design and incorporating game elements into lesson planning.
• 📚 There are resources available such as podcasts, blogs, YouTube channels, and books that can help educators understand gamification in a school context.
• 🏆 Gamification doesn't require a winner; it's about well-thought-out instruction that can be applied to any unit or course design.
• 🧩 Gamification involves using game mechanics like points, badges, and levels to enhance learning experiences without necessarily creating a complex system.
• 🎲 It's a myth that gamification must involve video games; it's about applying game-like structures and relationships to classroom activities.
• 🔍 Educators can use tools and materials, both digital and non-digital, to implement gamification, adapting to the resources available in their school.
• 🎨 Gamification is about giving students voice and choice, and providing pathways to success through engaging and meaningful activities.
• 🌐 Joining gamification-related Twitter chats and reading books like 'Explore Like a Pirate' can help educators get started with gamification terminology and practices.
• 🤔 Dispelling common myths about gamification can help educators feel more confident in starting to gamify their classes and exploring new teaching methods.
• 📈 The speaker encourages educators to ask questions and engage with the community for support in implementing gamification in their classrooms.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is to dispel myths about getting started with gamification in education.

What is the 'law of diminishing intent' mentioned in the script?

The 'law of diminishing intent' refers to the phenomenon where initial excitement about a new idea fades over time, leading to the idea being shelved instead of being implemented.

What is the biggest myth about gamification that the speaker wants to dispel?

The biggest myth the speaker wants to dispel is that one must be a gamer to implement gamification in education.

What does the speaker mean by 'there is no game' in the context of gamification?

By 'there is no game,' the speaker means that gamification is not about designing an actual game, but rather about applying game mechanics to existing educational activities to make them more engaging.

Why does the speaker believe that being a gamer is not a prerequisite for gamification?

The speaker believes that being a gamer is not a prerequisite because gamification is about good design and applying game mechanics to enhance learning experiences, which are skills that educators already possess.

What resources does the speaker recommend for educators interested in gamification?

The speaker recommends resources such as podcasts, blogs, YouTube channels, and books that discuss gamification in a school setting, as well as joining Twitter chats and reading the book 'Explore Like a Pirate'.

What is the second myth about gamification that the speaker addresses?

The second myth is that gamification has to have a winner, which the speaker refutes by stating that gamification is about well-thought-out instruction and does not necessarily require a competitive element.

What is 'Explore Like a Pirate' and how is it relevant to the script?

'Explore Like a Pirate' is a book that details various game mechanics that can be applied to educational units or course design, making it a relevant resource for educators looking to implement gamification.

What is the third myth about gamification that the speaker discusses?

The third myth is that gamification has to involve actual video games, which the speaker clarifies is not the case as gamification is about integrating game elements into course design, not necessarily using digital games.

How does the speaker suggest gamification can be implemented without digital tools?

The speaker suggests that gamification can be implemented using tactile materials, giving out physical badges or items, and creating activities that give students voice and choice, without the need for digital tools.

What does the speaker mean by 'gamification is what you want to bring to your class'?

The speaker means that the essence of gamification is the application of game elements and mechanics to make learning more engaging and interactive, regardless of whether it involves digital tools or not.

How can educators get started with gamification after watching this video?

Educators can get started with gamification by exploring the recommended resources, understanding the myths, and applying game mechanics to their lesson plans to create more engaging and meaningful learning experiences for their students.