Encourage
Problem Solving
Topic 1 cont.
2
Video Games encourages problem solving.
Participants are encouraged to use facts to solve problems within the game.
Sequencing of problems, or challenges is well-ordered. Students progress through the game at their own pace.
Students are presented with challenges that are pleasantly frustrating. This means that the student has confidence that the problem will be solved, but it will take effort. This technique encourages "flow", a state where the learner is emmersed in the task at hand.
Games operate on a cycle of expertise. A challenge is presented, students practice until mastery level, then a new challenge is presented that builds on the knowledge gained from the last challenge, and so on. The "Practice and Mastery" technique ensures that learner has previous knowledge accessable.
Complexity increases in small increments. A few variables are introduced at each level so as not to overwhelm the learner.
Instructions for tasks are given either "just in time" when the student needs it, or "on demand" when the student feels the need to know.
Skills are developed and used to accomplish a goal. The focus is not on skills, but on the goal.
School can often be boring because students don't know "why" the are doing things.
Information is often provided in large chunks which are difficult to absorb and have no application for students.
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Schools Teach Facts
Video Games Allow Learners to Use Facts to Solve Problems
Problem Based Learning promotes effective learning